KBS World Radio, the foreign-language radio service of KBS, will hold a walkathon event at the Peace Plaza in Olympic Park in Jamsil, southern Seoul, on Oct. 24 to mark the 40th anniversary of its Arabic service, officials said Wednesday.

The event is open to anyone wishing to enhance his or her understanding of Arab countries and build friendship with them. It is expected to be attended by some 1,000 participants including Arab fans of Korea’s pop culture, the organizers said.

The participants will be provided with halal kebab for lunch and a variety of souvenirs, including halal-certified ramen noodles.

Side events, such as a K-pop performance and a traditional Arab cultural performance, are planned in the afternoon following the walkathon. A quiz show on Korean and Arab cultures is also to take place as part of the post-walkathon program.

Some 10 Arab embassies will set up booths in the Peace Plaza to introduce their respective cultures.

The organizations supporting the event aim to promote the cause of the Korea-Arab friendship. Main sponsors include South Korea’s Foreign Ministry, Korea Council of Sports for All, Korea-Arab Society, Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission South Korea and the Embassy of the State of Kuwait.

Those interested in participating in the walkathon can register at world.kbs.co.kr.

By Song Sang-ho (sshluck@heraldcorp.com)