The Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria (KCCN), Youth Orientation for Development (YOD) and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) celebrated 2026 World Day for Cultural Diversity, Dialogue and Development and the 150th Anniversary of Kim Koo, a Korean Legend ( 1876-1946), who is also known as Baekbeom.
The Activities on Thursday at the KCCN Abuja to celebrate the day include speeches, cultural display by secondary school student and the Kim Koo Short Video Contest and Easy Writing Competition.
The event with the theme “Cultural Power: Shaping Nations through Creativity and Identity”, aimed at promoting Korea and Nigeria culture via traditions, music, and food.
In his welcome address the the Director of KCCN, Mr Jeon Juho said culture is powerful force that shapes nations across borders.
Juho explained that 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 him, the event is especially meaningful because of today’s global creativity and cultural identity that has become more true 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.”
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 strength lied 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.
“This 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, the Koo’s vision aligns directly with today’s theme that reminds us 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 already alive in the growing cooperation between Korea and national development and Nigeria.”
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.
“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 leader of tomorrow, but active contributors to global conversations today.”
The highlights of the event include cultural performance by HopeJohn International School Karu, Capville School Gwarinpa, K-pop dance performance by the Xtreme Movement, penal discussion and Kim Koo 150th Anniversary Cultural Contest Award Ceremony.
In the essay category, Ms Elizabeth Chris from Kano State emerged winner, gifting samsung tab sio lite, Ananaba Chidinma from Abuja came second winning samsung galaxy buds 3.
Ms Elizabeth Ajetunmobi from Lagos State who came third took home Samsung galaxy buds core and Korean gift box.
In video category, Deborah Adeleke from Lagos State emerged winner, Ahmed Abudullahi from Abuja took second and Daniel Akinyiwola from Ondo State took third.
