Shekou's 'Hello APEC' cultural market takes participants on East Asia tour

Video by Lin Jianping

The second installment of the “Hello APEC” Shekou cultural market series was held April 19, offering local and expatriate residents an immersive journey into East Asia.

Organized by the Shekou Management and Service Center for Expats (Shekou MSCE), the series aims to foster a vibrant international atmosphere ahead of the 2026 APEC summit to be held in Shenzhen.

Participants wearing traditional-style garments wave to the crowd during the “Hello APEC” Shekou Cultural Market in Shenzhen on April 19, showcasing cross-cultural exchange ahead of the 2026 APEC summit. Photos courtesy of Shekou MSCE

Visitors dressed in hanbok pose beside a cultural display at the “Hello APEC” Shekou Cultural Market in Shenzhen on April 19.

Focusing on Korean and Japanese traditions, the bazaar, supported by the Korean Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Shenzhen, integrated authentic cuisine, live performances, and interactive experiences and knowledge outreach, allowing participants to experience a cross-border cultural excursion without leaving Shenzhen.

The food section was the most popular part, featuring a rich array of authentic flavors ranging from Korean kimbap, rice cakes, instant noodles and kimchi to Japanese matcha, delicate cakes and Ramune soda. These traditional delicacies provided visitors with a genuine "culinary journey."

Visitors sample traditional beverages at a stall during the “Hello APEC” Shekou Cultural Market in Shenzhen on April 19.

The stage remained a focal point of excitement. Energetic K-pop dance routines electrified the crowd, while violin performances added a touch of elegance. A highlight of the afternoon was the powerful Taekwondo demonstration by students and teachers from the Korean International School in Shenzhen.

In the interactive zones, residents delved deeper into local customs. Supported by Bornga Korean Restaurant, the Hanbok trial area saw long lines of residents eager to dress in traditional garments for photos. Nearby, a Japanese tea ceremony offered a serene taste of Eastern Asian culture. Junko, a long-time Japanese resident and stallholder, shared her joy in showcasing matcha culture, noting the warmth and curiosity of the diverse crowd.

The bazaar also featured beloved cartoon icons such as Hello Kitty, Doraemon, and Pikachu. A major highlight was the appearance of the trending IP "Puppygoon," whose South Korean designer attended the event to share creative stories and engage with fans.

Visitors pose in traditional Korean attire, watch Taekwondo performances, take photos with cosplayers, and engage in cultural activities at the “Hello APEC” Shekou Cultural Market in Shenzhen on April 19, as the event showcases Korean and Japanese traditions and promotes cross-cultural exchange ahead of the 2026 APEC summit.

The event included an APEC Knowledge Station where residents learned about the organization’s mission and the significance of the 2026 meeting through quizzes and creative souvenirs. Language workshops in Korean and Japanese also attracted many enthusiasts, who practiced basic phrases in exchange for themed gifts. A "Circular Market" was established to promote eco-friendly living through bartering.

By hosting monthly themed events that bring international cultures to the community's doorstep, the initiative continues to build a strong social foundation and a welcoming atmosphere for the upcoming APEC 2026 Summit.

Participants take a group photo at the “Hello APEC” Shekou Cultural Market in Shenzhen on April 19.