Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria Celebrates 15 Years Exchange, Over 300,000 Engaged

The Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria (KCCN) is celebrating its 15th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in promoting cultural diplomacy and mutual understanding between South Korea and Nigeria.

Since its establishment on May 24, 2010, the Centre has engaged more than 300,000 learners, visitors, and participants through a diverse range of educational and cultural programs.

Over the past decade and a half, KCCN has become a hub for cultural interaction, hosting over 650 events across Nigeria. These include Korean language (Hangeul) classes, Taekwondo training sessions, K-Pop dance competitions, school outreach programs, and annual cultural festivals such as the Korean Film Festival and Hansik (Korean food) Cooking Competitions.

Through these activities, the Centre has introduced many Nigerians to various aspects of Korean life and traditions, while fostering deeper appreciation and respect for Korea’s rich cultural heritage.

Speaking at the 15th anniversary in Abuja, KCCN Director, Kim Chang-Ki reflected on the journey and the growing cultural connection between both nations.

“Fifteen years ago, we opened the doors of the Korean Cultural Centre here in Abuja and planted a seed — a hope to build bridges between Korea and Nigeria through culture, education, and friendship.

“Today, that seed has grown into a vibrant tree bearing the fruits of collaboration and shared experiences,” he said.

In commemorating the anniversary, the Centre organized a week-long series of events that included cooking demonstrations, visual art and photography exhibitions, K-Pop performances, and Taekwondo displays.

These were capped by a special cultural diversity event in collaboration with UNESCO, reinforcing the Centre’s role in fostering global intercultural dialogue.

KCCN’s Event Manager, Yujin Lee, emphasized the Centre’s vision to not only showcase Korean culture but also serve as a platform for cultural reciprocity.

“Moving forward, we aim to present more of the Nigerian side of the cultural exchange.

“For instance, Nigerian and Korean food have many similarities, and we believe we can explore more of these connections. With the internet making recipes and traditions more accessible, there’s great potential for mutual learning,” she said.

As part of its future plans, the Centre intends to expand collaboration in film, literature, and education, building on the momentum of the past 15 years.

It also aims to reach more Nigerians outside Abuja through mobile cultural outreach and digital programming.

The Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria stands today as a testament to the power of cultural diplomacy in strengthening bilateral relations.

As it enters its next chapter, the Centre reaffirms its commitment to unity, creativity, and shared humanity through cultural exchange.