Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
FROM the Gat (Korean hat) to the Cheongsachorong (Korean traditional lanterns) South Korea came alive and filled the Bulawayo Music Academy on Friday as the Korea Festival 2025 made its debut in the City of Kings.
The event which spoke to the flourishing relationship between Zimbabwe and the Republic of Korea, was graced by high-profile dignitaries and marked by a significant humanitarian gesture.
Attending the festival were Kim Jong-hoon, Vice Governor for Economic Affairs of Jeonbuk State and Chairman of the Regional Council, alongside key Zimbabwean officials: Honourable Judith Ncube, Minister of Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Bulawayo Metropolitan Province; His Worship Mayor David Coltart of the City of Bulawayo; and Paul Nyoni, Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution. Also present was His Excellency Park Jae Kyung, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Zimbabwe while Sithandazile “Um’Africakazi” Dube, was the host.
Building upon the successful celebration of three decades of diplomatic relations last year, the festival’s expansion to Bulawayo signified a deepening commitment to cultural exchange beyond the capital, Harare. Ambassador Park Jae Kyung emphasised the festival’s core purpose: “The idea is to deepen the friendship and cultural exchange between Korea and Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe and Korea are one. Art lovers will step into a world of Korean rhythm, beauty, and tradition.”
A pivotal moment during the festivities came as Minister Judith Ncube expressed profound gratitude on behalf of the City of Bulawayo and the nation for a generous donation from the Republic of Korea. The donation comprised essential medical equipment and a vehicle, destined to bolster the city’s healthcare services.
“We are immensely grateful to the Republic of Korea for this vital donation of medical equipment and a vehicle. This kind gesture is a powerful symbol of the strong and growing friendship between our two nations. It directly addresses needs within our community and will significantly enhance medical service delivery for the people of Bulawayo. Such tangible support strengthens the very foundation of our bilateral relations,” stated Minister Ncube.
The donation underscored the practical benefits emerging from the Zimbabwe-Korea partnership, extending beyond cultural appreciation to impactful development assistance.
The festival delivered on its promise, offering Bulawayo residents and visitors a free, immersive, and family-friendly journey into Korean culture. The main stage pulsated with dynamic performances including the powerful, traditional percussion of Samulnori captivated the audience, the elegant precision of Korean Calligraphy demonstrations showcased an ancient art form, and taekwondo displays highlighted discipline and martial artistry.
The infectious energy of Korean popular music (K-Pop) filled the venue, featuring a special showcase by the KPOP Demon Hunters.
Beyond the stage, the festival grounds transformed into a bustling hub of exploration. Interactive booths allowed attendees to discover the latest in Korean cosmetics (K-beauty), savour authentic Korean culinary delights (K-food), experience cutting-edge technology from Korean corporate giants KIA, Hyundai, and LG.
The festival provided a unique window into Korea’s rich heritage, from its ancient traditions to its status as a global leader in innovation and contemporary culture.
The Korea Festival 2025 stands as the latest chapter in a growing artistic dialogue between the two nations. This relationship has deep roots, exemplified by events like the ground-breaking 2010 exhibition of contemporary Zimbabwean art at the Korea Foundation Cultural Centre in Seoul – the first of its kind in Korea.
The successful debut of the festival in Bulawayo, coupled with the significant medical donation, reinforces the multifaceted and strengthening bond between Zimbabwe and the Republic of Korea, promising continued collaboration and mutual enrichment in the years to come.
– Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu
