Laotian Coffee and Traditional Dance in Gangneung – A Special Moment from the Starlight Sharing Foundation at the World Coffee Festival

From May 2nd to 6th, the first World Coffee Festival was held in Gangneung, with participants from 20 countries. The Starlight Sharing Foundation, in collaboration with the Laotian Embassy and Laotian students , operated a special booth at the festival, creating a meaningful opportunity to introduce Laotian coffee and culture to Korea.

The Rich Allure of Laotian Coffee Infiltrates Korea

Laos, a landlocked country in Southeast Asia, is a coffee powerhouse, producing rich, high-quality coffees in its mountainous highlands . At the Laos booth, a hand-drip tasting event using Laotian coffee beans was held, and visitors were deeply impressed by the deep, rich flavor of this unique yet alluring Laotian coffee.

It was also a meaningful opportunity to introduce coffee as a medium that connects local communities and economic development, rather than simply a beverage, and to tell the story of Laos' coffee industry and producers.

Communicating Through Culture – Lao Traditional Dance Performance

A particularly eye-catching moment during the event was the traditional dance performance prepared by Laotian exchange students . Dressed in traditional costumes, the students performed beautiful dances on stage, capturing the unique rhythm and sentiment of Laos. The audience responded with applause and cheers.

The performance was more than just a spectacle; it was a warm experience that connected Korea and Laos through culture . The presence of not only families but also trade officials and local government officials further enhanced the meaning of cultural exchange.

The Role and Vision of the Starlight Sharing Foundation

The Starlight Sharing Foundation serves as a platform for connecting industries and cultures across borders through global economic, trade, and networking initiatives . This event went beyond mere festival participation and became a venue for exploring practical possibilities for cooperation between businesses, local communities, and nations .

The foundation plans to continue to create diverse opportunities for professionals in trade and industry , as well as young international students, to participate through these events . Our goal is to introduce cultures from around the world to Korea and, at the same time, lay the foundation for domestic companies to expand into overseas markets.

What was the reaction on the ground?

Many visitors responded, “I didn’t know Laotian coffee could be this delicious,” and “It was a truly special experience to be able to see traditional dances firsthand.” The experience of learning about coffee and culture together was particularly well-received by the younger generation .

The Starlight Sharing Foundation will continue its diverse activities as a hub of an international network connecting people, businesses, and cultures . We hope that the valuable connections made at this year's World Coffee Festival will lead to even greater possibilities in the future.

See you again at the next exchange event with the Starlight Sharing Foundation!