On Wednesday the 22nd May, The Venue in Avondale played host to an electrifying celebration of Korean culture. The recent K-Pop festival brought together music lovers from across Harare for an unforgettable evening showcasing the best of K-Pop.
As excited fans arrived at the venue, they were immersed in the vibrant atmosphere. Colourful booths lined the entrance, offering tasty samples of authentic Korean cuisine including kimchi, ramyeon noodles and more.
Korean Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Ambassador PARK Jae Kyung was in attendance. Ambassador PARK’S attendance at the festival demonstrated the high level of support from the Korean government for promoting people-to-people exchanges.
Renowned emcee and choreographer John Cole with his co-host Juzmine kicked off the proceedings at 16:00, warming up the ecstatic crowd with their infectious energy and enthusiasm.
“Let’s show our love for K-Pop and Korean culture! Who’s ready to dance?” said the charismatic John Cole, prompting a wave of cheers and applause.
The emcees expressed how thrilled the organisers were to host this momentous event. As they spoke, the anticipation in the air was almost tangible.
This free public diplomacy event was not just a celebration of K-pop; it was a heartfelt commemoration of the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and Zimbabwe, which began in 1994. Timed perfectly close to Africa Day on May 25th, the festival also honoured this significant day, reflecting the spirit of unity and cultural exchange. Adding to the significance, the festival served as a precursor to the first-ever Korea-Africa Summit set to take place in June in Seoul, Korea, where Zimbabwe’s President, His Excellency ED Mnangagwa, has been invited.
Ambassador PARK Jae Kyung, in his heartfelt speech, underscored the importance of this milestone:
“Some of you may have already noticed the 30th anniversary. Yes. The year 2024 marks the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Zimbabwe and Korea. It means this year is basically a festive year for celebration. And May 25 is Africa Day, which is another celebrating occasion.”
In his speech Ambassador PARK reinforced the positive message that K Pop artists spread world wide analysing a piece of music by the K Pop group BTS, “Let’s have a look at what these seven boys are singing about. The message is “love yourself” and “love myself.” The lyrics of BTS, which is “me of yesterday, me of today and me of tomorrow. It’s all me. I am learning how to love myself.” This, in a sense, is a simple message, but is deeply resounding and powerful thanks to their sincere voices, attitude and the message itself. This is more than entertaining. At the same time, we can often read about stories of K-Pop bands’ making generous donations for children in underdeveloped countries. Good stories and good messages always make a good influence.”
Hope Masike enthralled the audience with her masterful play on the Mbira instrument, seamlessly fusing its traditional sounds with contemporary K-Pop music. She flawlessly displayed her mastery of the instrument while John Cole delivered stunning choreography which left the audience cheering and begging for more. The duo’s performance was a mesmerising blend of Zimbabwean heritage and Korean pop culture, showcasing the harmonious possibilities when diverse musical traditions intersect.
“John Cole, we are lucky to have you as a friend of the Embassy. And Hope Masike. Thank you for joining today. We are happy to have you as an Honorary Cultural Ambassador for Zimbabwe and Korea, ” said Ambassador PARK Jae Kyung expressing his gratitude to the duo of John Cole and Hope Masike.
Subsequent performances included dynamic dances from talented Zimbabwean dance groups Extreme Dreamers and Salt & Light. They displayed incredible synchronisation and charisma blowing the roof off. Their intricate choreography and passionate performances were met with loud cheers and shouts of encouragement from grateful fans. Each act outdid the last with their breathtaking skills. The highlight was a mashup of BTS’ “Dynamite” and “Butter” that had the whole venue screaming louder than any army!
During breaks in the music, Mr Cole kept the positive energy rolling with funny anecdotes and uplifting messages about Zimbabwean-Korean friendship.
“This festival is for every single one of you! Whether you’re a die-hard K-Pop fan or just curious about Korean culture, you’re in the right place. Let’s make some unforgettable memories together!”
Ambassador PARK Jae Kyung hinted in his speech that more fun is to come. “In October, another K-Festival is to be held in Harare, with a renowned Korean B-boying dance team, named Jinjo Crew. The Jinjo Crew has already won top position at many world competitions. And one of the team members, as the world’s top rank, is going to compete at the upcoming Paris Olympics as a Korean national team member.”
Throughout the festival, the bubbly atmosphere and outpouring of community spirit was palpable. Fans young and old, Korean and Zimbabwean alike, came together in a harmonious demonstration of intercultural appreciation. This memorable celebration tied perfectly with commemorations of Africa Day just days later and excitement is high for further cultural exchanges to come later this year.
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