By Philip Iglauer
The French-Korean Chamber of Commerce and Industry will hold the biggest social event of the year for French-Korean relations ― its Annual Gala, at the Hyatt Hotel, Dec. 3.
French Ambassador to Korea Elisabeth Laurin and some 700 other special guests, dignitaries and VIPs are expected to attend the gala. Slated for the entertainment are two musicals by ‘the duel French monarchs of the musical,’ Dove Attia and Albert Cohen.
Hosted by the most famous French-Korean in Korea, Ida Daussy, this annual event will be a celebration of French-Korean business ties that keep getting stronger, as evidenced by the entry into force of the EU-Korea FTA in July.
Top executives from French and Korean companies and such celebrities as Miss Korea 2010 Jung So-ra will also be there to soak up the vibs at the bilateral love fest.
The musicals are “1789, Les Amants de la Bastille,” which will have its world premiere showcase at the gala, and “Mozart l’Opera Rock,” the Korean version of the French hit musical that has been a fan favorite for more than 1.5 million theater goers. The musical officially launches here in February 2012.
Relations between France and Korea have hit a high water mark recently with big-wig political meetings and summit diplomacy.
President Lee Myung-bak visited France in May and November and French Prime Minister Francois Fillon came to Seoul in October. The G20 summits that were held in Seoul in 2010 and Cannes this year are pointed examples of strong ties.