As the Spring Festival draws near, a special intangible cultural heritage (ICH) online class was recently held in Tai'an, China, and Taean county, South Korea, simultaneously. The event highlighted Tai'an's Hou-style paper-cutting, a valued local ICH, and used a "remote linkage + local instruction" model to introduce the charm of traditional Chinese artistry to South Korean participants through screens.

Liu Weijuan, a representative inheritor of Tai'an Hou-style paper-cutting, connected online with local artisans in Taean county. Dressed in traditional attire, Liu explained the art form's historical roots and distinctive technique, which allows for remarkably delicate and expressive patterns. South Korean viewers were intrigued by the cultural richness and refined aesthetics associated with Taishan Mountain.

Participants from both locations engaged in hands-on practice, creating paper-cut blessings under virtual guidance. A South Korean participant said, "The precision and auspicious meanings in Tai'an paper-cutting resonate with the 'spirit of craftsmanship' valued in South Korean traditional arts. I hope for more exchanges to inspire mutual growth between our ICH traditions."

As Spring Festival is celebrated in both countries, the event served as a cultural bridge, conveying shared hopes for renewal and good fortune. By bringing Tai'an's heritage to international audience, it not only enhanced the living legacy of traditional craftsmanship but also deepened bonds between the people of China and South Korea.

Looking ahead, Tai'an plans to continue organizing ICH exchange programs to further strengthen the friendship between China and South Korea through cultural dialogue.

As the Spring Festival draws near, a special ICH online class is held in Tai'an, China, and Taean county, South Korea, simultaneously. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]