By Esther Oseyiomon
Stakeholders in the creative and diplomatic communities have underscored the growing role of film, cultural exchange and storytelling in addressing societal challenges and strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and South Korea.
They noted that Nigeria and Korea’s expanding cultural engagement is not only deepening diplomatic relations but also advancing advocacy efforts targeted at social protection and community development.
The position was highlighted during a film screening and cultural engagement event held at the Korean Cultural Centre in Abuja.
Director General of the Kaduna International Film Festival, Audu Kashim Israel, said cultural collaborations between both countries continue to drive growth in the creative industry while fostering stronger economic and diplomatic ties.
He pointed to platforms such as K-drama, K-pop, film festivals and exchange programmes as key avenues promoting mutual understanding and skills development.
Israel added that thousands of Nigerians have benefited from Korean language classes, workshops and other cultural initiatives facilitated through these engagements.
The event featured the screening of Scars, a film centred on the life of a teenage girl forced into early marriage, drawing attention to challenges facing vulnerable girls, particularly in parts of Northern Nigeria.
Participants stressed the need for stronger policies, sustained advocacy and deeper community engagement to eliminate harmful traditional practices.
Senator Shehu Sani commended the organisers for sustaining platforms that use storytelling to address real societal issues, describing short films as powerful tools for education and behavioural change.
In his remarks, Director of the Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria, Jeon Juho, alongside filmmaker Williams Ameh, reaffirmed that film remains a vital medium for shaping public consciousness and amplifying the voices of vulnerable groups.