Peking opera fans in Beijing didn't have far to go to enjoy some performances when a joint show was held at the embassy of the Republic of Korea on May 19.

The applause took a long time to die down in the hall of Ambassador’s residence in downtown Beijing. ROK ambassador Lee Kyu Hyung showed off his experience of Peking opera by performing a short extract. He has been learning the art for over 10 years and also the first foreigner to receive membership of the Peking Opera Club of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Former State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan attended the event. The gathering also featured over 100 fans and masters from both countries. Events organized by the Peking Opera Club of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs attract millions of fans from home and abroad every year. Some are diplomats and staff working in embassies in China.

Related video: ROK Ambassador performs Peking opera

Video: Zhang Xiao

Voiceover: Xing Xudong

Producer: Flora Yue