Hamilton will get a vibrant taste of Korean culture this weekend, with the Korea Story Festival bringing film, food, and traditional activities to the city. The free event, held at the Pavilion in the iconic Hamilton Gardens, is a collaboration between the Korean Consulate in Auckland and the Waikato Korean Association.
The festival will run from 1.30pm to 4pm on Saturday, April 18, offering Hamiltonians a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Korean heritage. The centrepiece of the afternoon is a screening of the acclaimed historical drama, The King and the Clown.
The 2005 film was a phenomenal success in South Korea, attracting more than 15 million viewers to become one of the nation's highest-grossing films. Directed by Jang Hang-jun, the story follows the lives of a deposed king in exile and the ordinary people who surround him, blending moments of humour with political intrigue and heartfelt human drama.
The event is part of a broader push to share international cultural experiences with communities outside of New Zealand's main metropolitan hubs, reflecting a growing global interest in Korean arts and culture, often referred to as 'Hallyu' or the Korean Wave.
A story of resilience and connection
Consul General Hong-ki Kim said the film was chosen for its powerful and universal themes, which he believes will connect with a New Zealand audience. He noted that the story explores ideas of loyalty, friendship, and human connection that can transcend cultural differences.
While set in a specific historical period, the story explores loyalty, friendship and human connection. We believe these emotional bonds can bridge cultural gaps and resonate strongly with local audiences.
Mr Kim said the recurring theme of resilience in the face of adversity would particularly resonate in the Waikato. “New Zealanders value community and looking after one another,” he said. “The relationships in the film reflect that same sense of whānau and connection.”
Alongside the film screening, attendees can enjoy authentic Korean food from various stalls and participate in a range of traditional games, offering a hands-on cultural experience for all ages. The festival has received support from South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighting its significance in cultural diplomacy.
Hamilton the ideal host city
Mr Kim explained that in the past, a majority of the consulate's cultural activities were held in Auckland. The decision to bring the Korea Story Festival to Hamilton signals a strategic shift to engage more directly with regional centres. “Cultural diversity should not be limited to major cities,” Mr Kim said. “Events like this help build understanding and bring communities closer together.”
He described Hamilton as the ideal host for the festival, praising it as a “dynamic city where many cultures coexist”. The combination of a welcoming local population and a strong, passionate Korean community in the Waikato made it the perfect fit. The choice of venue at Hamilton Gardens is also significant. The 54-hectare park, managed by the Hamilton City Council, is the Waikato's most popular visitor attraction, drawing more than one million people each year. Once the site of the city's rubbish dump, the land has been transformed over decades into a world-renowned collection of themed gardens that celebrate the art, culture, and history of civilisations from across the globe. These gardens tell the story of humanity through their designs, much like how Cairns churches united for a festival, showcasing the diversity and richness of human stories. Hosting the Korea Story Festival aligns perfectly with the Gardens' mission to tell the story of humanity through gardens.
The city's growing reputation as a hub for arts and culture, bolstered by developments like the new BNZ Theatre, makes it a natural home for such international events.
Getting to the Gardens
Hamilton Gardens is located on Hungerford Crescent, off Cobham Drive (State Highway 1). For those driving to the festival, extensive free parking is available at both the Gate 1 and Gate 2 carparks. Organisers note that parking can be busy during peak weekend times, so arriving early is recommended.
For those opting for public transport, the Busit Route 17 (Hamilton Gardens/University) departs from the Hamilton Transport Centre and stops at the Gate 1 carpark. The journey typically takes around 20 minutes.
Cycling or walking to the event is also a popular option. The Te Awa River Ride provides a scenic, sealed path along the Waikato River directly to the gardens from the city centre. The path is accessible for bicycles, wheelchairs, and prams.
Mr Kim said his ultimate hope is that everyone who attends the festival leaves with a greater appreciation and deeper understanding of Korean culture. By making the event free and accessible, organisers aim to foster stronger community ties and broaden the cultural horizons of the Waikato.
