― Over 300 attendees joined a vibrant celebration of tradition and modernity ―

The Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria (Director Ju-ho Jeon) hosted the K-Heritage Festival on Friday, September 19, at Terra Kulture in Lagos. Designed to showcase both Korea’s traditional heritage and contemporary K-wave culture, the event attracted more than 300 participants, including Hallyu fans and distinguished local dignitaries.

In their congratulatory remarks, Mr. Namgung Tak, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Nigeria, highlighted the shared spirit and rhythm between Korean Pansori and Nigerian traditional music. Mr. Lee Sang-ho, Consul General in Lagos, praised the steady growth of bilateral ties since diplomatic relations were established. Representing the Lagos State Government, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka emphasized the opportunities for collaboration in culture and the creative industries.

The festival atmosphere was electric even before the opening, with long queues forming outside the venue. At the Hanbok experience booth, organized in partnership with the Lagos K-Vibe community, families and young people eagerly dressed in traditional Korean attire, taking photos that brought their favorite K-dramas to life.

The stage program began with a Taekwondo demonstration by Kenny Martial Arts Academy (KMAA), followed by a high-energy K-pop dance performance by B-Stars, a Lagos-based team and award winner at the Centre’s previous K-pop Festival. The Korean troupe Samulnori E-seo then delivered a powerful percussion performance, while Owndo closed the evening with a crossover concert that uniquely blended traditional Korean music and K-pop, showing how heritage and modernity can coexist in harmony.

Audience reactions reflected the festival’s impact. One participant shared, “The Taekwondo and K-pop performances energized the festival, while the Samulnori and Owndo stages offered a special experience where tradition and modernity came together, showing how culture can connect people.” Another added, “Trying on Hanbok and enjoying the performances was like experiencing Korean culture beyond the dramas, and volunteering backstage gave me valuable new learning.”

The festival brought together audiences across generations, underscoring how Nigeria and Korea can celebrate and learn from each other’s cultures in a spirit of mutual respect and joy.

The Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria stated that the K-Heritage Festival was a meaningful occasion for Nigerians and Koreans to share and celebrate both tradition and modernity, and reaffirmed its commitment to expanding cultural programs across Nigeria to further strengthen the bridge of friendship between the two nations.