Online Reporter
Langalihle Mhiti
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
HARARE came alive with the vibrant sights and sounds of Korea as the Embassy of the Republic of Korea hosted the 2025 edition of the Korea Festival — a celebration of culture, music, and strong diplomatic ties between Zimbabwe and Korea.
Held on Friday at the residence of the Korean Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Park Jae Kyung, the festival was a colourful cultural experience aimed at strengthening the friendship between the two nations.
“It is an honour to host you today at this celebration of culture, music, and friendship between Korea and Zimbabwe,” said Ambassador Park.
“This programme was created to take you on a journey through Korea’s rich heritage from soul-stirring music and dynamic dance to powerful drumming and traditional storytelling.”
According to Ambassador Park, the theme of the festival was a “collaboration,” a nod to the joint efforts by Zimbabwean and Korean representatives to promote unity and mutual appreciation.
“These are not just Korean performances, these are our performances,” he said. “We are joining hands to celebrate the friendship between Korea and Zimbabwe.”
Several Zimbabwean Government officials, cultural leaders, and members of the diplomatic community were in attendance.
The festival also drew interest from members of the public, including students, who have a growing interest in Korean culture due to the rise of K-pop, Korean dramas, and fashion trends.
“The energy was amazing,” said 21-year-old Chiedza Matanda, a local university student.
“I’ve always been a fan of Korean culture but seeing it live like this is just something else. It’s a dream come true.”
The event featured an engaging line-up of performances from the Jeonbuk Traditional Art Troupe, who travelled all the way from Jeonbuk Province, one of Korea’s most culturally significant regions.
Their performance was a captivating mix of traditional dance, instrumental music, and dramatic storytelling offering Zimbabwean guests a rare chance to immerse themselves in Korea’s deep-rooted heritage.
Guests were treated to unique Korean instruments, high-energy drumming, and choreographed movements that reflected both grace and historical tradition.
The performances sparked loud applause and admiration from the audience.
Vice Governor for Economy of Jeonbuk Province, Kim Jonghum, who accompanied the performers, said:
“The performances from the Jeonbuk culture are an inspiration to us. Jeonbuk is Korea’s most deeply-rooted cultural area, and we are honoured to share it with Zimbabwe.”
This year’s Korea Festival was also held in Bulawayo on Friday before heading to the capital for its final day.
The two-day showcase symbolised the Korean Embassy’s mission to reach Zimbabweans across different provinces and expand cultural ties through art.
Sidumisile Mabena