By Favour Ulebor

ABUJA — As part of efforts to promote cultural diplomacy and deepen ties between Nigeria and the Republic of Korea, the Korean Cultural Center Nigeria (KCCN) hosted the 2025 Korean Speech and Writing Contest recently in Abuja.

According to Cultural Events and Communications Officer, Jennifer Eze Onyasi, the contest is held annually in all King Sejong Institutes worldwide to encourage Korean language learning and cultural exchange.

She said, “Language is one of the strongest tools in diplomacy. Through this contest, we’re giving Nigerians the opportunity to connect deeply with Korean culture.

“It’s a perfect day to celebrate both language and learning. We’re proud to be part of this global moment”.

She also explained the structure of the day’s activities, stating, “In the morning, we had the writing contest, which required all registered participants to come to our center and write. Then at the end of the day, we judged and announced the winners right after the speech contest.”

On the significance of the event, she added, “This is also a way to build cultural connection between Korea and Nigeria; Through having events like the Korean Speech and Writing Contest, we hope to empower Nigerians to speak the language and thereby create a cultural exchange between Korea and Nigeria.”

Highlighting the broader impact, she said, “For example, the speech contest winner not only walks away with a ₦200,000 cash prize, but with a sponsored trip to Korea where she would meet other participants from around the world. And if she wins there, more opportunities will follow.”

She also pointed out the alignment with Korean national observances, “Today is very significant because for the first time, Korea is celebrating the birthday of King Sejong, the founder of the Korean Hangul alphabet, on May 15. It’s also Teacher’s Day in Korea, and we’re marking both here with this contest.”

Winner of the speech contest and second-place writing finalist, Ananaba Adana, expressed her overwhelming joy at the trip to Korea.

She said, “I don’t know how I feel, but I know it’s extreme. I’m going to promote Nigeria in Korea; I’m taking Nigeria with me and bringing Korea back.”

Winner of the writing contest, Onoha Chizaram Princess, shared how her love for K-dramas inspired her to learn Korean in 2022 using online resources.

She said, “When I heard my name, I was shocked. I’m so grateful to God and KCCN for this platform.”

The event featured a writing contest, followed by the speech contest, with winners announced at the end of the day. Prizes included cash awards and a fully sponsored trip to Korea for the overall speech winner.