In commemoration of the 2026 World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, the Korea Cultural Centre Nigeria (KCCN) and the Nigerian National Commission for UNESCO (NATCOM-UNESCO), have declared that culture remains one of Nigeria’s most underutilised assets for national development, diplomacy and economic growth.
The event organised by the KCCN in collaboration with Youth Orientation for Development (YOD), brought together diplomats, youth leaders, creatives, cultural advocates and development experts to examine how creativity and cultural identity could shape nations and strengthen international partnerships.
Speaking at the event celebrating Kim Koo’s 150th Anniversary, Director of the KCCN, Jeon Ju ho, said countries across the world were increasingly deploying culture and creativity as instruments of innovation, influence and development.
Ju Ho described culture as a strategic force capable of shaping nations and strengthening global relationships, adding that the programme was designed to deepen intercultural understanding and strengthen cultural ties between Nigeria and South Korea through dialogue and youth engagement.
He said: “Today’s event highlights culture not just as a reflection of who we are, but also as a powerful force that shapes nations and builds connections across borders.”
Ju Ho added that the theme of the gathering, ‘Culture as Power: Shaping Nations through Creativity and Identity,’ reflects the increasing influence of creative industries and cultural identity in global affairs.
“In today’s world, creativity and cultural identity have become important tools for innovation and national development. Through music, film and the arts, countries can share their stories and strengthen mutual respect among people.”
Ju Ho also challenged young people to take greater ownership of cultural exchange and storytelling, saying they already play critical roles in shaping global conversations.
“Young people are not only the future of cultural exchange; they are already active drivers of change. Their creativity and ideas have the power to bridge divides and promote greater understanding among nations.”
Secretary-General of the Nigerian National Commission for UNESCO (NATCOM-UNESCO), Olagunju Lateef noted that Nigeria possesses enormous cultural assets capable of driving peace, social cohesion and economic transformation if properly harnessed.
“Our nation’s strength lies in its rich tapestry of languages, traditions, arts and values. When these expressions are nurtured and given space to dialogue, they become a powerful engine for innovation, youth empowerment and national unity.”
Represented by Mr Peter Omale, he stressed that cultural exchange programmes now go beyond entertainment to include knowledge-sharing, innovation and technology transfer between nations.
“We have cultural exchange programmes where we exchange not only culture, but also technology. That is part of the gain.”
Lateef who commended the collaboration between the KCCN and Youth Orientation for Development, stressed that initiatives such as the Kim Koo 150th Cultural Contest provide young Nigerians with platforms to engage with global cultures while affirming their own identity.”
“This is exactly the kind of intercultural dialogue that UNESCO promotes worldwide” he noted, while linking the event to the legacy of Korean independence leader Kim Koo, who believed that culture represents the true strength of a nation.
Quoting Kim Koo he said, “The only thing I want endlessly is the power of high culture. This vision reminds us that when young people embrace their identity and express it boldly, culture becomes a bridge for dialogue, a catalyst for creativity and a force for peace.”
Highlights of both strategic celebrations were the Kim Koo Essay and Video Contest award ceremony, panel discussions, cultural performances and award presentations aimed at promoting tolerance, diversity and collaboration between communities from different cultural backgrounds.
