follow and like on:
By Priscilla Osaje
Mr Jeon Juho, the Director, Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria (KCCN), says culture is not only a reflection of people, but a powerful force that shapes nations across borders.
Juho said this in Abuja at the commemoration of 2026 World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development.
The event was organised by KCCN, in collaboration with Youths Orientation for Development (YOD), United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).
The event, which has its theme as “Cultural Power: Shaping Nations through Creativity and Identity”, aimed at promoting Korea and Nigeria culture via traditions, music, and food.
It is also aimed at bringing communities together in fostering understanding and belonging across the globe.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event also marked the 150th anniversary of Korean cultural icon, Kim Koo (1876-1946), who is also known as Baekbeom.
Koo headed the Korean Provisional Government in exile and is celebrated in South Korea for his vision for a culturally unified, peaceful nation.
According to Juho, the event is especially meaningful because of the global creativity and cultural identity that has become truer for innovation and national development through music, film and art.
He said both Korea and Nigeria are able to share their stories, strengths, as well as mutual respects among people.
He congratulated all participants, especially winners of the Kim Koo Essay and Video Contest.
“Your creativity and thoughtful expression demonstrated an important role that young people play in shaping the future through ideas and storytelling.”
The KCCN director said as the participants proceed with panel discussion, cultural performance and award presentation, he hoped that the event would encourage cultural understanding, meaningful dialogue and strong collaboration between communities.
Also speaking, Amb. Emmanuel Ejiogo, President of YOD, said the event was not merely to celebrate culture, languages, traditions, and artistic expressions, but to affirm a deeper truth that culture was not a barrier to unity, but foundation of peaceful coexistence and global progress.
“The World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development reminds everyone that humanity flourishes when people learn from one another, respect one another, and create opportunities for inclusion, dialogue and mutual understanding.
According to him, in a world often challenged by division, intolerance and conflict, cultural exchange remains one of the strongest instruments for peace building.
“This year’s celebration is significant as it also commemorates the 150th anniversary of Koo, one of Korea’s most respected national leaders, an advocate for freedom, peace, patriotism and human dignity.
“His vision of a world guided not merely by military strength or economic power, but by cultural excellence and moral leadership continues to inspire generations across the globe.
“Koo wants a vision of a nation that will become a beautiful country through culture and humanity.
“That vision aligns strongly with the ideals of UNESCO and the mission of YOD, in promoting education, intellectual dialogue, youth empowerment and sustainable peace,” he said.
The YOD president said the organisation also recognised and celebrated the outstanding young minds, who participated in the essay competition marking the 150th anniversary of Kim Koo.
“Through your creativity, research and thoughtful reflections, you have demonstrated that young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but active contributors to global conversations today.”
He congratulated all the award recipients, adding that their achievements represent the power of knowledge, cultural appreciation and intellectual engagement.
“May this recognition inspire you to continue building bridges of understanding between nations and people,” he added.
Ejiogo further appreciated the management and staff of KCCN for the impactful partnership and commitment to promoting cultural diversity and fostering intellectual exchange in Nigeria.
“We deeply value the collaboration and look forward to strengthening our relationship in the years ahead.
“As we celebrate today, let us renew our commitment to tolerate, including everyone in peaceful dialogue and empowerment of young people as agents of cultural diplomacy and social transformation,” he noted.
Mr Peter Omale, Secretary, Culture Sector, NATCOM-UNESCO, said the organisation instituted the day to underscore a fundamental truth that cultural diversity was a driving force for sustainable development, peace and social cohesion.
Omale was represented by Dr Olagunju Idowu, Secretary-General of NATCOM-UNESCO.
He said Nigeria’s strength lay in its rich tapestry of languages, traditions, arts and values, adding that when these were nurtured and given space to dialogue, they became a powerful engine for innovation, youth empowerment and national unity.
“NATCOM-UNESCO recognises and applauds the YOD and KCCN for organising this programme along with the Kim Koo 150th Cultural Contest and Award Ceremony.
“These initiatives provide young Nigerians with platforms to express their creativity, engage with global cultures and affirm their identity with pride,” he said.
According to him, Koo’s vision aligns directly with the day’s theme which shows that when young people embrace their identity and express it boldly, culture becomes a bridge for dialogue, a catalyst for creativity and a force for peace.
“The spirit of cultural diplomacy is already alive in the growing cooperation between Korea and national development and Nigeria.”
The highlights of the event include cultural performance by HopeJohn International School Karu, Capville School Gwarinpa, K-pop dance performance by the Xtreme Movement, panel discussion and Kim Koo 150th Anniversary Cultural Contest Award Ceremony.
NAN also reports that in the essay category, Ms Elizabeth Chris from Kano State emerged winner and was gifted a Samsung Tab S10 Lite.
Ananaba Chidinma from Abuja came second, winning a Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 while Ms Elizabeth Ajetunmobi from Lagos State, who came third, took home a Samsung Galaxy Buds Core and Korean gift box.
In the video category, Deborah Adeleke from Lagos State emerged winner, Ahmed Abudullahi from Abuja took second and Daniel Akinyiwola from Ondo State took third position.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Deji Abdulwahab
follow and like on:
