Sharjah: Sharjah has been named ‘Guest of Honour’ at Seoul International Book Fair 2023, the largest book and publishing trade show in South Korea.
Launched in 1954 and upgraded to the status of an international fair in 1995, the Seoul International Book Fair is one of the top book fairs in Asia and brings together a diverse gathering of publishers, distributors, and industry experts from across the continent.
As Guest of Honour, Sharjah will present a cultural programme featuring seminars, discussions, showcase heritage arts and crafts of the UAE, present traditional Emirati song and shows, and promote Arabic culture through various other art forms. In addition, a lineup of distinguished Emirati authors, publishers and artists will be part of Sharjah’s Guest of Honour delegation.
Cultural project
Ahmed Al Ameri, chairman of Sharjah Book Authority, said: “Not a year passes by without Sharjah registering a new milestone in its cultural project, launched by His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, that introduces global cultures to our rich history and shines light on our contributions to humanity through science, philosophy, and arts.”
He added: “The Guest of Honour status conferred on Sharjah by the Seoul International Book Fair is a celebration of the UAE’s accomplishments in reinforcing the role of knowledge as a vital factor in the advancement and prosperity of nations. It is also a celebration of the Arab culture and of every author and publisher who has contributed to expanding our cultural horizons at the local, regional, and international levels.”
Sharjah’s new title at the 2023 Seoul International Book Fair comes close on the heels of it being feted as Guest of Honour at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair 2022 and its celebration as Market Focus at the 49th edition of the London Book Fair, becoming the first representative of an Arab country to receive this honour.
