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Bastille Day 2024: A Historic French Celebration in Korea!
On July 12th, the FKCCI, in collaboration with the Embassy of France in the Republic of Korea, organized a dazzling Bastille Day event that gathered more than 1,400 people from the French and Korean communities. It was the first time our two institutions united their forces and resources to offer events in a single location, allowing us to welcome our community in all its forms and colors.
This year, we were also honored to welcome 200 cadets and members of the "Promotion Capitaine Goupil" from the prestigious French military academy Saint-Cyr Coëtquidan, who performed the French anthem in a tribute to the nation’s history. Indeed, Bastille Day commemorates the historic storming of the Bastille on July 14th, 1789, marking a pivotal moment of the French Revolution, along with the Fête de la Fédération, a celebration of French unity on July 14th, 1790.
Celebrating Bastille Day extends beyond showcasing traditional cuisine, delightful beverages, captivating musical performances, and renowned brands. It represents an opportunity for the expanding French community in Korea to come together, strengthen bonds, and enhance the friendship between France and Korea through embracing French culture at its core.
The event launching ceremony started at 8 pm with speeches from the FKCCI Chairman, Mr. David-Pierre Jalicon, as well as from the Ambassador of France to Korea, H.E. Mr. Phillipe Bertoux.
"France shares many values with South Korea, a democratic country of comparable size and culture, oriented towards innovation. Our relationship of equals is free from any disputes. It is therefore up to all of us to elevate it to the highest level." - David-Pierre Jalicon, FKCCI Chairman
As a special highlight, guests were treated to a breathtaking fireworks display against the stunning backdrop of the Han River. Then, the French buffet was served, offering guests an overview of French cuisine with dishes like Boeuf Bourguignon and Blanquette de Veau. The event also featured various booths offering exquisite French delicacies, including cheese by Ile de France, bread by Bridor, sandwiches by Gabo Trading, butter by Maison Lescure and Président, fried chicken by BBQ, chocolate by Valrhona, chocolate spread by Bonne Maman, finger food by Racinée, olives by Loulibo, wines by Chateau Minuty, Vinessen, and Seoul Wine & Spirit, champagnes by G.H.Mumm, ciders by Dancing Cider, Maison Sassy, and Louis Raison, beers by Gouden Carolus Hopsinjoor and Limburgse Whitte, lemonades by Opia, apple juice by La Passion du Verger, sodas by Perrier, Bulles d’Armoriques (CNC), Orangina and Evian (Lotte Chilsung), cocktails by Cafés Richard, and Makgeolli by Boksoondoga. Additionally, exciting activities included a photography exhibition of Yun SeokJae’s works and Renault Korean Motors’ booth showcasing its new Grand Koleos car model. An outstanding lucky draw, featuring gifts such as luxurious hotel stays, last-generation electronic devices, and high-quality skincare and cosmetics products, delighted the guests throughout the evening. Every guest went home with gift bags, including French skincare and snacks, coffee capsules, and a toothbrush from L’Oréal, Poult, Bonne Maman, Lotus, Minish, and Terres de Café.
As the event unfolded, the military cadets enchanted the public with their mesmerizing choral performance, singing together in unison. During the lucky draw, Mrs. Ida Daussy warmly congratulated the winners. With her extensive experience as a Korean TV celebrity, professor, and entrepreneur, Mrs. Ida Daussy has lived in South Korea for the past 28 years, effectively embodying the role of a cultural ambassador for France in Korea. The evening culminated with two DJ sets by young, talented French and Korean artists: Suhèr Chandi and CC.
FKCCI thanks its 75 amazing sponsors, thanks to whom Bastille Day was possible this year: Cartier, DPJ & Partners Architecture, GTT, JCDecaux Korea, Korea Defense Industry Association, Lanvin, L'Oréal Korea, Paris Baguette/LINA’s Paris, Pernod Ricard, Renault, Vinessen as Platinum partners, Accor Ambassador, Air Liquide, Airbus, Arianespace, Bluebell, Coffee & Cocktails, Crédit Agricole, Forvis Mazars, Michelin, Natixis, Savencia as Gold partners, and AGS Four Winds, Andros, Arkema, Axa, BNP Paribas, CMA CGM, Dassault Systemes, Ida Daussy, It-Concept, Korea Aerospace Industries, Korean Air, Lacroix, Lactalis, LBG, Thales, and Veolia as Silver partners. Their generous support was instrumental in bringing this wonderful celebration to life, and we are incredibly grateful for their contribution.
FKCCI also thanks all the participants who joined the event and made this night so thrilling and joyful. The team hopes to see you next year to continue bonding and strengthening ties between French and Korean culture and people.
