13 November 2023, Seoul - The ASEAN Week 2023, the main public and cultural diplomacy activity of the ASEAN-Korea Center (AKC) and 10 ASEAN Embassies in Korea, took place from 8-11 November 2023 at COEX in Seoul.

The anticipated annual event focused this year on ASEAN and Korean crafts through an exhibition entitled: "11 Pots 11 Colors: Colorful Heritage of ASEAN Crafts: Capturing the Light". The exhibit featured crafts which may be used as containers such as baskets, brassware, ceramics, glass, porcelain, rattan, pewter, and silverware throughout the ASEAN region and in Korea. AKC Secretary General Kim Hae-yong and ASEAN Committee in Seoul Chairperson Lao PDR Ambassador Songkane Luangmuninthone delivered remarks at the exhibit opening.

The Philippines' featured container items were from the Buri Metro collection, a handwoven crafts line featuring baskets, light fixtures and similar items made of buri palm leaves combined with leather. The items are designed and made by hand by women weavers from Negros Island. The items were praised for their natural look and feel making them attractive products for homes and interiors.

A unique feature of this year's exhibition was a section showcasing personal pottery and related items from collections of ASEAN Ambassadors. Philippine Ambassador Theresa Dizon-de Vega exhibited a trio of pottery pieces by famed Filipino artist Ugo Bigyan. Ambassador Dizon-de Vega shared that she has been following the career of Ugo Bigyan for some time and has been collecting some of his unique pieces inspired by nature as well as the colors and textures of Quezon Province where the artist is based. END