KSI Quito, Ecuador, Captivates Local Audiences with
Korean Culture: 2026 Sejong Culture Academy Held
> A wide range of Korean cultural experiences, from ttakji-chigi and K-pop to K-beauty and personal color analysis
> 2,250 participants over four days, confirming strong interest and enthusiastic response among local youth
KSI Quito held the 2026 Sejong Culture Academy from July 7 to 10 at the ESPE University campus in Ecuador. The event was designed to introduce local youth to a wide range of Korean culture, including traditional arts, K-pop, and K-beauty, and to give participants firsthand experience of these traditions and trends.
On July 7 and 8, introductory sessions and hands-on workshops were held from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Each program was offered in one-hour blocks, allowing participants to freely join at their preferred time. Over the two days, a total of 1,000 people visited the venue, reflecting strong public interest. On July 9, 600 participants joined the program, followed by 650 on July 10. As the event was open not only to regular KSI learners but also to the general public, the Sejong Culture Academy attracted more visitors than expected.
◇ Korean Tradition and Popular Culture in One Place
Participants experiencing ttakji-chigi, a traditional Korean game
The orientation and introductory sessions on July 7 and 8 offered a variety of hands-on experiences in traditional Korean culture, including ttakji-chigi, a traditional Korean game.
Participants listening to a lecture on the history and development of K-pop
A special session on K-pop, which has recently become highly popular in Ecuador, was also held. Participants deepened their understanding of Korean popular culture by exploring the history of K-pop and its development across generations. Reflecting the strong local interest, they actively took part in both the lecture and hands-on activities.
◇ Experiencing the Latest K-Beauty Trends Through Personal Color Analysis
The highlight of the event was a K-beauty workshop led by K-beauty expert Kim Hye-mi. During the intensive sessions held from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on July 9 and 10, the workshop introduced the latest K-beauty trends and personal color analysis techniques.
Participants gathered to take part in the personal color class
Before the hands-on practice, the workshop used audiovisual materials and introductory videos to help participants easily understand the basic concept of personal color. Instructor Kim Hye-mi demonstrated the diagnostic process herself, explaining in detail how to compare colors and identify shades that suit each person. Participants then paired up to conduct personal color assessments for one another and apply what they had learned.
Participants taking part in personal color analysis under the guidance of instructor Kim Hye-mi
Drawing on her experience as a former airline cabin crew member and current image consultant, Kim shared practical image consulting techniques and beauty expertise. Under her professional guidance, participants explored colors that suited their skin tones and identified images and styles that suited them.
The lecture also discussed why Korean cosmetics are recognized globally, highlighting their innovative manufacturing technologies and strong product performance. Kim emphasized that, in Korea, caring for healthy skin regardless of gender is considered an everyday form of self-care and an important foundation of well-being.
“I was deeply moved to see young people in Ecuador engaging so closely with a new aspect of Korean culture. We were all greatly surprised by the enthusiastic response this event received.” ___ MSc. Edgar Sambache, Director of KSI Quito
“At first, I thought there might not be many participants, but I was happy to see so many people attend over the four days. It was a special and unforgettable experience to help with the event, and I think I will remember it for the rest of my life.” ___ Dani, Student at ESPE University
Article by Karina Bermeo, Correspondent at KSI Quito, Ecuador