Join the Korean Cultural Center Washington, D.C. and the Embassy of the Republic of Korea as we proudly present the international premiere of MIMESIS by the Seoul Metropolitan Dance Theatre at Washington, D.C.’s Warner Theatre on Sunday, September 27, 2026!
This landmark original work by one of Seoul’s premier dance companies reimagines eight traditional dances through a contemporary lens. Following its world premiere in Seoul in 2025, this first performance of MIEMESIS outside Korea also commemorates the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States in 2026 and the rich history of Korea-US ties through the universal language of dance.
Drawing on archetypal figures from traditional Korean society—including influential women, scholars (seonbi), shamans, and royalty—MIMESIS brings Korea’s cultural heritage to the modern stage through contemporary choreographic language. Twenty dancers from the Seoul Metropolitan Dance Theatre will be part of a 30-member performing company traveling to Washington, D.C. for this epic 75-minute production led by Artistic Director and Choreographer Hea Joung Yun.
As K-Pop, dramas, and other Korean cultural content continue to capture global attention, various icons of Korean cultural heritage have become familiar sights for international audiences, including the wide-brimmed traditional Korean hat (gat) and aesthetically structured traditional Korean clothing (hanbok). MIMESIS, however, invites audiences to experience a deeper dimension of Korean culture beyond mere visual elements, through the distinctive movement, breathing rhythm, and emotional expression of Korean traditional dance.
This free, public performance aims to bring the artistic depth and contemporary beauty of Korean traditional dance to American audiences while expanding the possibilities of cultural exchange between Korea and the United States.
Admission to this event is free with advance ticket registration (below). See the full announcement for details.