Omani Ambassador to Korea Mohamed Salim Alharthy has invited Koreans and international visitors to view his country’s pavilion at the Yeosu Expo.

The 786-square-meter pavilion is made up of six sections ― the highlight of which, Alharthy says, is the 44-seat 4-D cinema.

“The most interesting and attractive thing is the 4-D cinema that we have in the pavilion,” said Alharthy at the new Omani Embassy building in Jongno in central Seoul.

“In the 4-D cinema, a person can really feel and touch the ocean, and even get the smell of frankincense; Oman has been known for frankincense and incense. So the person can even smell the frankincense … like he is diving toward the sea of Oman.”

Alharthy said the pavilion, themed “Nurturing Marine Wealth,” aimed to highlight the “historical role of the sultanate as a seafaring and trading nation” and “interest and efforts of Oman in preserving the environment,” as well as “reinforce the close relationship between the Sultanate and the Republic of Korea.”

Explaining the decision to move the embassy out of its old home in Itaewon, Alharthy said it was important for the Omani government to have its own unique embassy building.

“As you know, it is in a strategic location here in Seoul in a very historical place near the many palaces like Gyeongbok palace and other historical places, including some of the architecture of Oman, Arabic, Islamic and Korean as well.”

The official opening ceremony for the striking example of Omani architecture will take place on May 25.

Alharty encouraged the public to attend cultural events celebrating the opening on Saturday May 26 in Gwanghwamun Plaza, Techno Mart Square and Han River Park, in the late morning, afternoon and evening, respectively.

The events will feature Omani cuisine, traditional arts and dance, a fashion show, photo gallery and henna tattoo artists.

By John Power  (john.power@heraldcorp.com )