By Honorary Reporter Kadishi Oliseh from Nigeria

The Korean Cultural Centre (KCC) in Nigeria on June 20 hosted the K-pop Festival at the arts and culture center Terra Kulture in Lagos, the country's largest city.

As the preliminary round of this year's K-pop World Festival set for October in Changwon, Gyeongsangnam-do Province, the event drew over 400 attendees including K-pop fans, contestants and representatives from the Korean Embassy in Abjua, KCC and Korean Trade-Investment Promotion Agency.

The programs included the competition's two sections of singing and dance competitions, a Hanbok (traditional clothing) wearing experience, red carpet show, and display of Korean books, promotional materials and Korea.net publications. Visitors also received K-pop-themed T-shirts and took part in raffles for prizes and cultural activities.

KCC Director Jeon Joo-ho (seventh from left in front row) on June 20 poses for a group photo at the K-pop Festival held at the arts and culture center Terra Kulture in Lagos. (Kadishi Oliseh)

The program began with the national anthems of both countries, followed by an opening speech by KCC Director Jeon Joo-ho and introductions of participants and judges. Seventeen contestants and teams took part in the competition, with seven in singing and 10 in dance.

KCC Director Jeon Joo-ho (right from center), judges and winners of the singing and dancing sections of the K-pop Festival on June 20 pose for a group photo at Terra Kulture in Lagos. (Kadishi Oliseh)

Mary Isibhakhome Obidudu won the singing contest for her performance of "Changgwi," a horror-folk track based on Korean folklore by Ahn Ye eun. In an interview, the classically trained singer said her love for Korea, K-drama, K-pop, and traditional music and sound inspired her song choice. 

She added that to learn the song required an understanding of the Korean language and important expressions to better convey the emotions and meaning. 

In the dance category, the seven-member Kingsmen took the title for its performance of "Fake Love" by BTS, and took claimed the popularity award.

In an interview, the team said K-pop and what it embodies inspired their song choice, outfits and choreography.

K-pop Festival attendees on June 20 pose for a photo wearing Hanbok at the arts and culture center Terra Kulture in Lagos. (Ifunaya Enamor and Benadine Kosiso)

At the Hanbok stand, attendees had the opportunity to try on Hanbok, and gifts related to Korea and souvenirs went to visitors.

ljyhwa@korea.kr

*This article was written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.