The Republic of Korea has reaffirmed it’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Nigeria across key sectors including trade, technology, culture, and education.
Charge d’Affaires of the Republic of Korea to Nigeria, Tak Namgung, made the commitment during the 2025 Republic of Korea National Day celebration held over the weekend in Abuja, attended by Nigerian government officials, members of the diplomatic community, citizens and friends of the Republic of Korea.
Reflecting on Korea’s remarkable transformation from one of the poorest nations to a global economic powerhouse, Namgung attributed the success to hard work, education, and a firm belief in democracy and freedom.
He said: “That belief that real progress must be built on freedom and human dignity, continues to guide us today. It is what inspires Korea’s key initiatives in business, technology, and culture. Whether it’s K-pop, K-food, or K-tech, they all stem from the same idea that openness and creativity can change lives.”
Highlighting the shared values of innovation, resilience, and people-driven development between the two countries, the envoy emphasized that Nigeria remains a vital partner for Korea, particularly as both nations celebrate 45 years of diplomatic relations.
“Our two nations share a belief in potential, in people, in innovation, and in the power of working together. Korea will continue to work closely with Nigeria to create new opportunities from trade and technology to culture and education. The Embassy will keep serving as a bridge for that cooperation.”
Namgung noted that major Korean companies such as Dell EMC and Samsung Tech Industries were already contributing to Nigeria’s industrial and infrastructural growth. In return, he said, Nigerian business leaders bring energy and creativity that inspire further collaboration.
The envoy further highlighted the growing people-to-people ties between both nations, revealing that more than 1,800 Nigerian students and officials have studied or trained in Korea and are now contributing to their communities back home.
While urging Nigerians to explore Korean products such as K-food, K-beauty, and K-tech, he noted that, “Nigeria leads Africa in creativity and innovation.from fintech to value and happiness.”
Speaking further, the Envoy commended successful collaborations like Sophia’s Navy Nigeria Weeks, which he described as “a great example of teamwork between Korean companies and local talents.”
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, congratulated the people of the Republic of Korea on their National Day, describing it as “a vibrant tribute to the founding ideals and lasting accomplishments of the Korean people.”
Represented by Amb. Mohamed Haidara, he emphasized that the celebration also reflects the principles of peace, cooperation, and mutual respect that continue to define Nigeria–Korea relations.
He acknowledged Korea’s meaningful contributions to Nigeria’s development, especially through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).
“Nigeria and Korea have enjoyed a long-lasting and cordial relationship marked by mutual trust and a shared commitment to strengthen bilateral cooperation.
“Nigeria remains committed to working closely with your government to advance our common goals and foster enduring goodwill.”
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Nigeria–Korea Parliamentary Friendship Group, Hon. Nnamdi Ezochi, commended Korea’s transformation into one of the world’s most advanced economies, describing it as “a shining example of what visionary leadership, discipline, and innovation can achieve.
“Our two nations share a great relationship built on mutual respect, trade, education, and technology. For Nigeria, Korea represents true friendship and a dependable development partner.”
The event showcased products from leading Korean brands including Cotra, LG, Samsung, Hyundai, and Kia, alongside cultural performances by solo artist Gina Hwang and contemporary music group Sangjaru, who thrilled guests with traditional and modern Korean songs.
The event reaffirmed the deepening bond between both nations not only through diplomacy and trade, but also through shared culture, creativity, and mutual respect.
