Online Reporter
Victor Maphosa
Herald Reporter
ZIMBABWEANS living in South Korea recently celebrated the country’s Independence Day, marking 45 years since gaining freedom from colonial rule on April 18, 1980.
While the main event took place in Gokwe, Midlands Province, and was presided over by President Mnangagwa, Zimbabweans in Seoul held their celebrations on April 19, 2025, coinciding with the official launch of the Zimbabwean Community in South Korea (ZCSK).
Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Japan and South Korea, Mr Stewart Nyakotyo, represented by Consular General Mr Alex Baik, emphasised the sacrifices made for independence.
He extended warm greetings on behalf of President Mnangagwa and expressed gratitude to the Zimbabwean community for their dedication to celebrating their heritage annually.
Ambassador Nyakotyo underscored the importance of unity among Zimbabweans abroad, noting that the establishment of the ZCSK aligns with the Second Republic’s policy on diaspora engagement.
“The platform (ZCSK) will certainly foster unity among Zimbabweans living, working and studying in South Korea and enable them to exchange ideas and support each other,” he said.
“The launch of the ZCSK dovetails with the Second Republic’s policy on diaspora, which seeks to include all the Zimbabwean diaspora in the country’s development, guided by ‘the country is built by its people and leaving no one and no place behind’ mantras.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we must remember that our independence was not given to us on a silver platter, but was won after a protracted, bitter war, which resulted in tens of thousands of our people perishing. We must, therefore, never lose sight of the ideals they fought for.”
In his address, ZCSK chairman Mr Orein Francis Jafter highlighted the significance of the day, not only as a celebration of independence, but also as an occasion to mark the official launch of their community organisation.
“April 18, 1980, marked the beginning of a sovereign Zimbabwe, a free and proud nation. Our presence here today is a continuation of that legacy; it reflects our commitment to building something greater together,” he said.
Mr Jafter described ZCSK as a united platform for Zimbabweans to promote culture, cooperation, and support one another in Korea.
He emphasised the community’s mission to foster better communication among Zimbabweans, celebrate their culture, and connect with opportunities back home.
Mr Steven Heo, executive director of Africa Insight, also congratulated Zimbabwe on its 45th Independence anniversary.
He expressed joy in being part of the celebration and extended an invitation for collaboration between communities in South Korea and Africa, highlighting the importance of shared ideas and support.
The celebrations not only honoured Zimbabwe’s past, but also aimed to strengthen unity and support among Zimbabweans in South Korea, promoting a brighter future for their homeland and their community abroad.
