Honorary Consul of the Republic of Korea Graeme Plummer says the colour, grace and movement of the performances provide a unique opportunity for city people to get a glimpse into 5000 years of Korean tradition and culture.

“The group visited Christchurch two years ago and its performance was very well received,” Mr Plummer says. “It has promised something even more spectacular this time.”

Two free performances, which will provide a taste of the full programme, will be held on Friday, 4 October in Cathedral Square from 12.15 to 1.15pm, and on Saturday, 5 October at the Art Centre’s South Quad at lunchtime.

The full programme, Sights and Sounds of Korea, will be performed at the James Hay Theatre on Saturday, 5 October from 7.30pm. Burnside High School’s Morrison Quartet will perform during the first half of the concert. The $5 tickets will be available from Ticketek.

Songpa-Gu is located in the southeast of Seoul, the capital city of South Korea. It and Christchurch have been sister cities since 1995. Christchurch's newest sister-city relationship is supported by the fast-growing local Korean community.

The Christchurch Songpa-Gu Sister City Committee is arranging the visit, with support from Christchurch Casino, Christchurch International Airport, Gary Cockram Hyundai, New Avonhead Travel, and Asia 2000 Foundation.