Seoul celebrates South African culture at the 8th Seoul Africa Festival

South Korea celebrated the 8th edition of its annual African Culture Festival, marking nearly a decade of fostering cultural exchange between the African continent and the Korean Peninsula. What started as a modest initiative to promote awareness and appreciation of African heritage has now blossomed into a prominent celebration of African identity. This year, the spotlight shone brightly on South Africa.

Held at the iconic Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) in central Seoul, the festival drew over 2,000 attendees and transformed the venue into a vibrant stage of music, fashion, and cultural exchange. The celebration featured both Korean and international models showcasing South African attire, symbolizing a rich blend of traditional African aesthetics with contemporary Korean design. The event served not only as an artistic showcase but also as a meaningful reminder of the global influence of South African culture.

Significantly, this year’s festival coincided with South Africa’s Heritage Month—an occasion dedicated to honoring the nation’s cultural diversity. The presence of many South Africans living in Korea, dressed in their traditional clothing, added a deeply personal and emotional layer to the event. For many, the festival offered a sense of home and belonging. In a month when South Africans globally celebrate their heritage, this event ensured that their voices and traditions were recognized and celebrated abroad.

Social media amplified the festival's impact. Videos of the event circulated widely on TikTok, sparking excitement and admiration among South African users online. Many viewers shared their pride in seeing their culture represented so authentically on an international stage. One user commented, “Guys, I watched this runway exhibition live and it was magical,” while another added, “Love to see Korea bringing talents from Africa to collaborate for this project! I’d love to see more collaboration.” Others expressed regret for missing the event while they were in Korea, further proving its emotional resonance.

As reported by The Korea Times on September 4, the festival was organized by the nonprofit organization Africa Insight, in collaboration with the African Group of Ambassadors in Korea and the Seoul Design Foundation. The event took place on September 12 and 13 at DDP—an iconic architectural landmark and design hub that plays a central role in spreading global design culture. As the Seoul Design Foundation notes, DDP serves as a world-class platform for creativity, welcoming international citizens to engage in shared artistic experiences.

The evening’s program opened with an electrifying performance by the West African group Ponike, whose dynamic drumming and high-energy dance routines set the tone for an unforgettable runway show. Diplomats representing various African embassies in Seoul took to the stage wearing their respective national costumes, celebrating their heritage with pride and elegance. Following this, the fashion showcase took center stage, featuring collections that skillfully merged African fabrics and styles with Korean design elements—highlighting both cultural preservation and innovation.

According to Korea Bizwire, beyond the runway, DDP was transformed into a cultural hub where 15 African embassies hosted booths presenting national crafts, foods, and traditions. Rwanda offered traditional dishes, while the Congo displayed locally made handicrafts, inviting attendees to experience the richness and diversity of African cultures.

A major highlight of the festival was the participation of renowned South African designer Laduma Ngxokolo, the visionary behind the celebrated brand MaXhosa Africa. The Seoul Africa Festival’s Instagram page had confirmed his attendance just a day before the event. Founded in 2010, MaXhosa Africa began as a project to create premium knitwear inspired by Xhosa culture—particularly designed for amakrwala (Xhosa initiates). Through his work, Ngxokolo has championed the modernization of traditional aesthetics, positioning South African fashion on the global stage.

The festival not only celebrated South African culture but also served as a unifying force for African communities in Korea. Attendees representing countries such as Angola, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Burundi, and Nigeria came together in celebration, sharing traditions, values, and experiences in a collective display of pan-African unity.

The 8th Seoul Africa Festival was more than just an event—it was a cultural moment. It reminded the world that even in foreign lands, heritage can thrive, cultures can converge, and stories can be told through fabric, rhythm, and the universal language of art.

IOL