[AJA Global Report] R16 KOREA, How Dynamic it is!

'R16 KOREA 2014' was held on 5-6 July at Jamsil Olympic Park. (Photo by Michal Mocarski)

R16 Korea, an annual international urban culture festival, was held in Seoul, South Korea, with the final break-dance crew tournament taking place on Sunday, 6 July at Jamsil Olympic Park.

Gamblerz Crew from Korea won the championship of 'R16 KOREA 2014'. (Photo by Michal Mocarski)

The crews, being judged by significant international break-dance figures, were competing in two categories: performance, and battle. The first prize in the performance tournament went to Predatorz Crew from Russia, which also made it to the final stage of the battle tournament, where the 2013 Slavic Champions lost to Gamblerz Crew from Korea.

B-boy teams from eight countries brought to break-dance and fantastic performance. (Photo by Michal Mocarski)

The competition of B-boy teams from eight countries brought to break-dance fans to Korea from all over the world, making the atmosphere diverse and global. Fans from countries like Japan and China, but also from as far away as Switzerland or the USA were cheering for their national teams, while also supporting other participants by applauding after every stunt. Even overseas hip-hop reporters and bloggers came to share the unique atmosphere of R16 with people all around the world.

There were a lot of events in the outside such as street performances and several graffiti exhibitions. (Photo by Michal Mocarski)

Outside the tournament, various artists and events promoted the key values of the festival: respect and hip-hop culture. Visitors could enjoy dance performances by legends like Electric Boogaloos or Nomad G, while rap music fans were able to see a live concert by Jay Park, Loco, and Gray. Moreover, even people who could not purchase tickets for the main event were able to see numerous street performances and several graffiti exhibitions. Looking forward to the ‘R16 KOREA 2015’.

By Michal Mocarski, Poland, AJA Global Reporter