Why is Jesus in Brazil Wearing a Hanbok, a Traditional Korean Garment?

The Christ the Redeemer statue, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a landmark of Brazil, has garnered much attention for wearing a traditional Korean hanbok. On the June 7th, 2024, the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, was adorned in a beautifully arranged hanbok. In the released photos, the 38-meter-tall statue appears as if it is actually wearing the hanbok.

However, this was actually the work of designer Jinhee Lee, who used projection mapping to create a blue robe symbolizing Korea’s traditional five cardinal colors and the colors of the Brazilian flag.

This event was organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism and the Korean Cultural Center in Brazil to celebrate the opening of the “Lights of Korea: Jinju City Exhibition” exhibition in Brazil and to wish for the successful hosting of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro this November.

Korea and Brazil have maintained friendly relations since establishing diplomatic ties in 1959. It is hoped that this event will further strengthen the relationship between Korea and Brazil. 

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