The renowned House of Wisdom (HoW) has unveiled a treasure trove of rare titles as part of its involvement in the Sharjah Guest of Honour programs at the 65th Seoul International Book Fair, which runs from June 14 to 18. The emirate’s expansive pavilion aims to introduce Emirati and Arab cultures to Asian audiences via a carefully curated cultural showcase.
The focus of this rare books exhibition is on the close relationships and common tales that bind Islamic culture and its Korean counterparts. It includes a rich tapestry of prints, manuscripts, and ornamental gems. The exhibit’s thorough account of the travels and immigration of Arab and Muslim scholars who noticed a new home in Korea, accompanied by meticulous documentation of their journeys and interpretations of the literary and scientific innovations they encountered along the way, has also been an important attraction for book fair attendees, particularly history enthusiasts.
A stimulating panel discussion exploring the complex historical ties among Korea and the Arab and Islamic worlds was also organized by The House of Wisdom. The session, which featured Prof. Hee Soo Lee of Hanyang University’s Department of Cultural Anthropology, aimed to familiarize the Korean audience with Sharjah’s unique journey in fostering intellectual exchange as well as its efforts to foster a knowledge-based society by providing access to research and educational resources as well as futuristic libraries.
Exploring common values
“Our rare book exhibition as well as broader program emphasizes the breadth and longevity of cultural ties among South Korea and the Arab and Islamic world, which can be seen in our art, architecture, calligraphy, knowledge, and literature,” said Marwa Al Aqroubi, Executive Director of HoW. In the coming years, we also hope to investigate fresh prospects for partnership that will promote communication and understanding.
The delegation of the HoW, headed by Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasim, participated. The Library of the Republic of Korea, the Korea National People’s Museum, the National Hangul Museum, as well as the King Sejong Institute—which opened a new branch in Sharjah that will serve as the institute’s regional headquarters—were all visited by the chairman of the Department of Government Relations and the head of the Sharjah delegation.
