Mr. Kim Pankyu, South Korean Ambassador to Nigeria, has emphasized the importance of promoting Korean cultural identity and heritage globally through Hanbok, Korea’s traditional attire.
Speaking at the opening of the 2025 Hanbok exhibition held at Nike Art Gallery in Abuja on Thursday, Ambassador Pankyu described the event as a celebration of Korea’s artistic legacy and an opportunity for cultural exchange.
The exhibition, themed “Hanbok Reborn as Art”, was organized by the Korean Cultural Centre in Nigeria (KCCN) and featured works by 11 contemporary Korean artists from the Savina Museum. It reimagines Hanbok not only as traditional clothing but also as a symbol of cultural identity and modern artistic expression.
“Hanbok reflects the history, belief systems, and evolving identity of the Korean people. Through this exhibition, we aim to share Korea’s unique spirit with the world while engaging future generations in preserving our heritage,” Pankyu said.
He praised the efforts of the participating artists, who used Hanbok’s colors, shapes, and textures to craft vibrant pieces that bridge tradition and modernity. “This is not just about fashion—it’s about storytelling and cultural continuity,” he added.
The ambassador also extended his appreciation to renowned Nigerian artist and gallery founder, Mama Nike Okundaye, for her ongoing support of Korean cultural initiatives in Nigeria.
In her remarks, Okundaye expressed admiration for Korean artistry and cultural preservation, calling for deeper collaboration between Nigeria and South Korea in the areas of textile, fashion, and art.
“South Korean culture is deeply embedded in their daily life, from tourism to food and fashion. Exhibitions like this help us learn from each other and inspire local artists,” she said, emphasizing the richness of Nigerian textiles and their potential for global recognition.
Ms. Yunjin Lee, Event Manager of KCCN, noted that vivid colors were central to the curation of the exhibition, drawing a connection between Korean and Nigerian traditional dress.
Mr. Han Sang-IK, curator from the Savina Museum of Contemporary Art, highlighted the exhibition’s aim to explore new possibilities where heritage meets innovation. “Each artwork here represents a unique reinterpretation of Hanbok, blending tradition with contemporary vision,” he said.
The event concluded with a vibrant fashion show by models from KCCN and Nike Art Gallery, showcasing the elegance and creativity of Korean and Nigerian traditional attire.
