티스토리 뷰
Photo Cred: Brad Nam
Last May 22, the Indianapolis 500 parade was held in downtown Indianapolis for the 100th running of the Indianapolis 500. It is one of the original events produced by the 500 Festival. The IPL 500 Festival Parade has grown to be one of the signature events held in the United States each year. The parade is the only 500 Festival event that has taken place every year since 1957. In downtown Indianapolis, an estimated 300,000 spectators lined the streets of Indianapolis, but also there was tradition, culture, and international spirit.
Photo Cred: Brad Nam
During the event, there was a parade of 44 Nationality Council of Indiana (NCI) members. Participants, who were from various nations such as India China, Mexico, in the parade, were elegantly dressed in their native folk and ethnic costumes. South Korean women who live in Indianapolis were in stunning traditional costumes called “Han-Bok.” In addition, they held their traditional holding fan called “Boo-Chae”, while walking in the parade. With regard to these Korean traditional costumes, many spectators were interested in ethnic costumes and gave their support. One spectator even had some questions about how to wear Korean traditional costumes and where she could purchase.
Photo Cred: Brad Nam
For the last couple of years, Korean American Women’s Association (KAWA) has been in charge of representing Korea at the Indianapolis 500 Parade. According to KAWA, they prepared two weeks for the parade with traditional clothes and accessories. In addition, they practiced their walking while wearing traditional costumes and holding fans.
Photo Cred: Brad Nam
Kyung-Im Kim, who is the president of KAWA and participated in the event, said that she felt so glad to attend the parade while representing Korea. She thought it was a happy time to show Korean culture to many spectators. Also, she wanted to thank all of the Koreans who live Indianapolis, because she has had a lot of help from them for the parade.