Abuja, Nigeria — The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Nigeria, led by Chargé d’Affaires Namgung Tak, hosted the National Foundation Day reception on 7 November at the Continental Hotel Ladi Kwali Conference Centre in Abuja. The event, held under the theme “Shaping the Future of Partnership through Creativity and Innovation,” brought together more than 400 guests, including ambassadors and diplomats from 47 countries, senior Nigerian officials, business leaders, cultural partners, and members of the Korean community.

To mark the occasion, the Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria (KCCN) presented a cultural performance featuring geomungo artist Hwang Jin-ah and the traditional creative ensemble Sangjaru. Hwang showcased contemporary interpretations of the geomungo’s deep and resonant sound through pieces such as Taepyeong and Short Film, while Sangjaru captivated the audience with original works including Gyeongbuk Swing and Sangjaru Taryeong. Their dynamic stage, incorporating traditional dance elements such as sangmo spinning, offered guests a vivid and modern expression of Korean artistic identity.

Guests were then invited to enjoy a variety of Korean dishes—gimbap, bulgogi, japchae, dakgangjeong, and kimchi—alongside a promotional booth operated by KOTRA and KCCN that showcased Korean cosmetics, instant noodles, snacks, and everyday cultural products.

Chargé d’Affaires Namgung Tak, in his welcoming remarks, underscored Korea’s core values and global initiatives, stating that Korea’s growth is rooted in democracy, freedom, and a strong belief in people, and that the spirit of creativity and openness drives the rise of K-Pop, K-Food, and K-Tech as well as Korea’s partnership with Nigeria.

Representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mohamed Haidara, Deputy Director of the Asia–Pacific Department, delivered a congratulatory message on behalf of Foreign Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, extending warm wishes to the Government and people of Korea. Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, Chair of the Nigeria–Korea Parliamentary Friendship Group, also conveyed remarks on behalf of Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, noting that Korea’s development stands as a symbol of vision, innovation, and resilience, and reaffirming interest in strengthening the bilateral relationship.

The reception also highlighted the expanding role of Korean companies in Nigeria, with LG Electronics, Samsung Electronics, Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Corporation, and Linda Sophia showcasing their latest technologies and products at dedicated booths. Their participation underscored ongoing opportunities for cooperation in industrial development, digital innovation, and technology-driven growth.

This year’s celebration served as an important platform to reaffirm the growing partnership between Korea and Nigeria. With the participation of government institutions, cultural organizations, the private sector, and local partners, the event demonstrated both countries’ shared commitment to advancing collaboration across diplomacy, innovation, culture, and people-to-people exchange.