The Korea Cultural Centre Nigeria (KCCN) on Monday hosted the 4th edition of its Ssireum (Korean wrestling) exhibition and mini contest at the Centre’s gym in Rivers House, by the Federal Ministry of Finance, Abuja.
The event, organized by the KCCN Taekwondo Department, commenced at 2:30 p.m. with arrival, accreditation, and a welcome session featuring a cinematic presentation on the history and concept of Ssireum.
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Activities included athletes’ weight categorization, demonstration of rules by technical officials, and a mini contest, followed by the presentation of token gifts, photo sessions, and departure.
Over 100 athletes and guests participated in this year’s edition, including representatives from the Nigeria Armwrestling Federation, the Nigeria Police Force, and several other organizations. The tournament formed part of activities marking the Korean Thanksgiving celebration (Chuseok) in Nigeria.
Addressing participants before the commencement of the exhibition, Ogunmuyiwa Gbolahan, speaking on behalf of the KCCN Taekwondo Department, encouraged the athletes to take pride in being the first generation to embrace the traditional Korean sport in Nigeria.
“Everyone here should count themselves very lucky because very soon Ssireum will be properly introduced in Nigeria, and you will all be the pioneers of this great sport,” Gbolahan said.
He explained that the exhibition aims to promote cultural exchange and friendship between Korea and Nigeria through sports and to introduce Nigerians to one of Korea’s most traditional and respected forms of wrestling.
The event, which carried the theme of discipline, strength, and cultural unity, was noted for its punctuality, with organizers reminding participants that “there is no African time.”
Organizers described the success of the fourth edition as a step toward establishing Ssireum as a recognized sport in Nigeria, emphasizing that the growing interest reflects the deepening cultural ties between both countries.
 on Monday hosted the 4th edition of its Ssireum (Korean wrestling) exhibition and mini contest at the Centre’s gym in Rivers House){kind=link}