An event showcasing the cultures of the countries of Central Asia was held in the capital of South Korea ahead of the first “Korea–Central Asia” summit.

A cultural event titled “Meeting on the Silk Road” was held in Seoul as part of preparations for the first “Korea–Central Asia” summit. The first summit is scheduled to take place in Seoul on September 16, 2026.

The event was organised by the Preparatory Office under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of South Korea at Cheonggye Plaza. Its main objective was to provide the South Korean public and foreign visitors with an opportunity to become more familiar with the rich historical and cultural heritage of the Central Asian countries — Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

During the cultural event, guests were introduced to the national traditions and principles of hospitality of the peoples of Central Asia. Participants had the opportunity to try on national costumes, take part in specially organised thematic competitions and learn about the tradition of Eastern tea drinking.

Alongside the distinctive features of Central Asian cultures, the event also highlighted the role of the Silk Road in developing cultural ties among peoples, which has historically played an important role in fostering interaction between different communities.

According to Jeong Eui-hye, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of South Korea and head of the Preparatory Office, the first “Korea–Central Asia” summit to be held in Seoul will be an important milestone not only in developing intergovernmental relations, but also in expanding humanitarian and youth ties.

The cultural event was aimed not only at widely introducing the cultural heritage of Central Asian countries to South Korean society, but also at further strengthening mutual understanding and cultural relations between the peoples of the two regions.