Korea holds first K-pop concert in Abuja

The Korea Cultural Center in Nigeria (KCCN), in collaboration with Jumparewa Creative, at the weekend, organised a ‘K-Pop Hurray concert’ for lovers of music in Abuja.

K-pop, short for Korean popular music, is a form of popular music originating in South Korea as part of South Korean culture. It includes styles and genres from around the world, such as pop, hip hop, R&B, rock, jazz, gospel, reggae, electronic dance, folk, country, disco, and classical on top of its traditional Korean music roots.

The term “K-pop” became popular in the 2000s, especially in the international context.

speaking, Ms Jennifer Ezeonyeasi, KCCN Culture and Event Administrative Assistant, said this maiden edition of the K-pop hurray concert was in commemoration of the ‘World Dance Day’ celebrated every April 29.

Ezeonyeasi said the event was designed to bring the K-pop community in Nigeria together, as well as winners of K-pop and those who had gone to Korea for K-pop.

“We invited the winners and finalists of K-pop in 2012, 2015, and 2023 among others, like the Tsod dancers that had won in Nigeria and Korea.

”This will help in strengthening and building a K-pop network among communities in Nigeria, as well as facilitating collaboration because Korean pop music is large in Korea,” she said.

Ezeonyeasi said the event was impactful, saying it had created a room for networking among dancers.

”It has also helped in notifying dancers, who want to improve their dancing skills and learn from a Korean choreographer, the commencement of the K-pop class academy session on 27th May”, she said.

Mr Isaac Ajiga, Creative Director, Jumparewa Creative, said the event aimed at preserving and strengthening the K-pop community through networking and engagement.

Ajiga, also known as Isaacjiga said the event embodied creativity, passion, and diversity.

According to him, K-pop had been able to seamlessly blend traditional elements with contemporary trends, creating a unique sound and style that resonates with audiences far and wide.

“What makes K-pop so compelling is its ability to connect with people on a personal level.

“The artists through their captivating performances, striking visuals, and heartfelt lyrics, invite us into their world by touching our lives with their authenticity and talent.

“This connection has fostered a sense of community among fans, known as the ‘K-pop fandom’, who are united by their love for the music and the shared experiences it brings,” he added.