The Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria (KCCN) plans to launch Nigeria’s first national Ssireum (traditional Korean wrestling) competition, making Nigeria the first African country to host an official Ssireum league. The initiative aims to promote cultural exchange, youth engagement, and sports diplomacy between both nations. Announced during the Chuseok festival in Abuja, KCCN Head Coach Gbolohan Ogunmuyiwa said the competition will likely debut next year in collaboration with schools and sports bodies.

KCCN’s Yujin Lee noted that over 40 people participated in a Ssireum exhibition this year, celebrating Korean Thanksgiving. Nigerian sports leaders, including Sunday Adeleye, praised the initiative and encouraged embracing Ssireum alongside traditional Nigerian sports like Dembe and Kokawa to strengthen mutual cultural ties.