By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

The Embassy of Peru in the Republic of Korea celebrated the third edition of “Alpaca Day in Korea” at Alpaca World in Hongcheon, Gangwon Province, together with the institution’s management team, on September 7.

This event, held for the third consecutive year, highlighted the cultural and economic importance of the alpaca, a millenary animal native to Peru and widely appreciated in Korea. Peru is home to over 80% of the world’s alpaca population, domesticated more than 6,000 years ago, making the country the leading producer of this fine and thermoregulating natural fiber — renowned worldwide for its exceptional quality and available in over 22 natural colors.

During the celebration, visitors enjoyed an alpaca parade featuring the alpacas named “Peru” and “APEC Lima”, along with a newborn alpaca named “Pisco” — in honor of Peru’s national spirit made from pisquera grapes, celebrated for its authenticity and centuries-old tradition.

This cultural event also provided an excellent opportunity to promote Pisco as Peru’s flagship beverage, symbolizing the richness of the country’s land and the cultural heritage passed down through generations — positioning Peru as the cradle of a unique, authentic, and internationally acclaimed spirit.

The occasion marked the inauguration of the new “Barrio Latino” area at Alpaca World, inspired by ancestral Peruvian designs, and featured live Peruvian music performed by Ángel Puma. The celebration attracted many Korean and international visitors, who enjoyed a day of cultural exchange and friendship between Peru and Korea.