Jakarta, IO – The Andong Mask Dance Festival, held annually in the city of Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea, is one of Asia’s most colorful and anticipated cultural celebrations. First launched in 1997, aiming to preserve the traditional Hahoe mask dance from the UNESCO-listed Hahoe Village, the festival has grown into a global stage for cultural exchange and creativity.
This year’s festival, held from September 26 to October 5, 2025, brought together 700 performers from 35 groups across 28 countries, including Indonesia’s very own Kiny Cultura Indonesia. Led by Kiki Puspita Sari, the 16-member Indonesian team proudly performed two traditional dances, Topeng Langgam Jakarta from Betawi and Mambo Simbo from Papua, earning the Best Encouragement Award for their stunning performance.
Independent Observer had the opportunity to meet the dancer, coach and leader of Kiny Cultura Indonesia. For Kalya Mahiya, a student from SMA Al Izhar Pondok Labu, Jakarta, the experience was unforgettable. “It was an amazing feeling to represent Indonesia on an international stage. The award proves that hard work and persistence truly pay off,” she said. Kalya and her team trained for two months, balancing schoolwork with intense rehearsals. “It wasn’t easy, but with the support of our coaches, friends, and families, we made it. Never stop dreaming and trying your best. We can always make our country proud,” she added.
Their coach, Suryanih, shared that the team spent over 150 hours rehearsing, before flying to Korea. “The dancers came from different age groups and skill levels, which made training challenging, but their spirit and teamwork made it all worth it,” she said with pride. “I am happy with what they have achieved,” she said.
For founder Kiki Puspita Sari, the award symbolizes more than just victory. “It’s about love for our heritage,” she said. “Through mask dance, we learn about life, emotions, and the wisdom of our ancestors. We want to remind children everywhere that traditional culture is an essential part of identity. Culture is our root, the strength that grounds us in this modern world. We promise to keep dancing, learning, and preserving Indonesia’s mask dance—on stage and in our hearts,” Kiki concluded.
Now in its 29th year, the Andong Mask Dance Festival continues to be a powerful symbol of friendship through art, uniting hundreds of dancers, musicians, and artists from around the world to celebrate the beauty of cultural diversity. (des)
