Seoul will host its largest celebration of African culture next week, bringing together traditional performances, contemporary fashion, and authentic cuisine from across the continent. The 8th Seoul Africa Festival, scheduled for September 12-13 at Dongdaemun Design Plaza in central Seoul, promises to offer visitors an immersive experience showcasing the rich diversity of African traditions.
The nonprofit organization Africa Insight announced Wednesday that it will co-host the festival alongside the African Group of Ambassadors in Korea and the Seoul Design Foundation. Since its launch in 2016, the festival has grown to become Korea's premier event dedicated to African culture, featuring an extensive program of fashion shows, live performances, hands-on activities, and cultural exhibitions.
The festival's opening ceremony and dinner on September 12 will welcome approximately 200 distinguished guests, including African diplomats, officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, scholars, business leaders, cultural figures, and local residents. This gathering underscores the growing cultural and diplomatic ties between Korea and African nations.
Throughout the two-day event, attendees will have the opportunity to sample authentic food and beverages from various African countries, including traditional wines and specialty coffees. Festival organizers have arranged special attractions, including souvenirs donated by African embassies in Seoul and round-trip airline tickets to Africa provided by Ethiopian Airlines, which will be distributed through a raffle system.
The festival's second day will feature dynamic street performances as approximately 80 performers take to the streets and plazas surrounding the venue. Among the highlighted performers is Twimbo, a traditional dance institute affiliated with the Division of African Studies at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, which will showcase authentic African dance traditions while engaging directly with the public.
A major highlight of the festival will be the fashion show held at Dongdaemun Design Plaza on the evening of September 13, featuring works by prominent designers from South Africa, Nigeria, and Korea. The show will prominently feature Laduma Ngxokolo, the internationally acclaimed designer and founder of the South African fashion brand MAXHOSA AFRICA, whose innovative designs have gained worldwide recognition.
Beyond the main performances and fashion presentations, the festival will offer comprehensive cultural programming designed to provide hands-on experiences with African dance, music, art, and beauty traditions. Additionally, promotional booths operated by various African embassies will provide visitors with information about different African countries, their cultures, and opportunities for cultural exchange and tourism.
