Taking its name from the legendary route which was used for centuries to transport silk from Asia to the Mediterranean, the festival is being held to highlight the cross-cultural diffusion of arts and technology and give Koreans the chance to experience its vivid cultures first hand.

Bae Jaehyun, the cultural affairs director-general at the ministry, said, "Central Asia has considerable resources and around 300,000 Koreans living in the region, making it a strategic and important area. Through this cultural festival, we hope not only to appreciate each other’s cultures, but also to bolster exchange and cooperation."

Starting with a photo exhibition titled "Song of Poets, Central Asia," the 20-day event will showcase Central Asia’s rich cultural heritage, unique customs and fascinating people.

A number of top officials from the region look forward to it. Alisher Okhunjonov, deputy head of the Embassy of Uzbekistan, said, "I am glad of today’s event as we will start a new cultural event which will promote not only cultural affairs between Korea and Central Asia, but also strengthen friendship and understanding between the people of Central Asia and Korea."

The Silk Road Cultural Festival ends on 29 November.