KCCN returns Korean film festival to Abuja after pandemic break

After a break of several years caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic, the Korean Film Festival has made a much-anticipated return to Nigeria. Organized by the Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria (KCCN), the revived film festival marks the 12th edition of the event and was held at Silverbird Cinema in Abuja betwwen September 19 and 21, 2024.

The return of the Korean Film Festival is a significant cultural event for Nigeria, rekindling a cinematic tradition that was put on hold since 2020 due to the pandemic. The event was officially launched with a grand opening ceremony, where the Korean Ambassador to Nigeria, Kim Pankyu, expressed his excitement about reviving the festival. According to him, this festival represents more than just entertainment; it underscores the growing cultural ties between Nigeria and South Korea.

Speakingat the opening ceremony, Ambassador Kim highlighted how Nigeria and South Korea share a unique cultural bond, particularly in their mutual appreciation for music and dance. “I have come to deeply feel that South Korea and Nigeria share a strong cultural affinity, especially in their love for music and dance,” he remarked during the opening ceremony.

He further noted that this connection extends beyond just music and dance, reaching into other cultural areas like fashion and cuisine. He added that the growing cultural resonance has also been driven by the increasing popularity of Korean media, particularly dramas and films, which have captured the hearts of Nigerians in recent years.

Kim cited the massive success of Korean dramas like “Squid Game”, a global phenomenon that became Netflix’s most-watched series in 2021, as a key example of this trend. He also noted the popularity of “Alchemy of Souls”, which became the most-watched series on Netflix Nigeria in 2022. “This surge in interest in Korean entertainment has made the Korean Film Festival even more significant as it helps introduce more Korean films to Nigeria’s vast and diverse audience.” He added.

“This festival not only serves as a platform for cultural exchange but also as an avenue for learning and growing appreciation for the stories and narratives that come from Korea,” Kim emphasised. He pointed out that Nigerian audiences have a growing appetite for Korean media, solidifying the cultural partnership between the two nations.

Also speaking at the opening event was Mr. Obi Asika, the Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture in Nigeria. Asika acknowledged the profound impact that Korean entertainment, particularly K-pop (Korean music) and K-dramas, has had on Nigerian audiences.

He also noted that millions of Nigerians have become avid followers of these forms of entertainment, which have greatly influenced the nation’s entertainment industry. Asika further stated that Nigeria can draw inspiration from Korea’s entertainment industry, especially in terms of production quality and storytelling techniques, to further elevate its own burgeoning film sector, Nollywood.

The Korean Film Festival to the enthusiasts in Nigeria is not just an occasion for showcasing films, but a testament to the deepening cultural exchange between the two countries. The shared appreciation for film, music, and other forms of artistic expression has created a unique bond that continues to grow stronger. Cynthia Williams, a Korean film enthusiasts said.

Throughout the festival, movie enthusiasts in Nigeria were given the opportunity to immerse themselves in some of the best Korean cinematic productions, reflecting the rich diversity and creativity of Korea’s entertainment industry. Through this event, both nations are set to further deepen their understanding of each other’s cultures, strengthening the bridges of friendship and cooperation.