The Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria (KCCN) has celebrated Chuseok, a significant Korean holiday, with an exhilarating Ssireum exhibition contest in Abuja.
Jennifer Izzi Onyasi, Cultural Events and Communications Officer at KCCN, shed light on the significance of Chuseok. “Chuseok is akin to Thanksgiving in Korea, where families reunite to give thanks.”
“Today, we’re sharing Chuseok’s rich cultural heritage with Nigerians through this captivating Ssireum exhibition,” she added.
Coach Gbolohan Ogunmuyiwa, Taekwondo instructor at the center, highlighted Ssireum’s unique characteristics.
“Ssireum bears similarities with judo and wrestling, but its distinctive rope-wrapped waist belts set it apart.
“This traditional Korean sport promotes unity, fitness, and strength among participants,” Coach Ogunmuyiwa said.
The Ssireum exhibition contest brought together 30 talented contestants from various clubs in the FCT.
Williams Dare, a participant and Taekwondo practitioner, shared his enthusiasm, saying, “As a judoka and Taekwondo practitioner, I’m drawn to Korean sports. Ssireum teaches balance, sportsmanship, and strategy.”
Coach Ogunmuyiwa noted, “We’ve invited participants from diverse backgrounds, including judo, wrestling, and Taekwondo. This exchange fosters mutual understanding and respect.”
The contest showcased the potential of Ssireum in Nigeria.
Jennifer Izzi Onyasi stated, “Our goal is to create awareness about Chuseok and Ssireum, while fostering collaboration between Nigerian and Korean sports organisations.”
Coach Ogunmuyiwa added, “We aim to introduce Ssireum to younger participants, enabling them to share their experience with peers.”
The KCCN has consistently promoted Ssireum in Nigeria.
Coach Ogunmuyiwa revealed, “This is our fourth consecutive year hosting the Ssireum exhibition contest. We plan to expand to other cities, such as Lagos and Port Harcourt.”
The contest winners received gifts and refreshments.
In the Female Heavy Weight category: Eragbai Blessing Omokhule (Damek Taekwondo) secured Gold, Comfort Sunday (Danmek Taekwondo) claimed Silver, Chukwuma Judith (BG Taekwondo) won Bronze.
In the Male Heavy Weight category, Dan Reynolds (Bullet Kick Taekwondo) took Gold,
Ugwuegbu Kelechi Samuel (KICK Taekwondo) secured Silver,
Akande Oyejide (Dove Taekwondo) won Bronze.
In the Female Light Weight category, Akande Oluwabusayo Eunice (Dove Taekwondo) claimed Gold, Oyelakin Opeyemi Lydia (Laupech) secured Silver,
Taddawus Destiny (Dove Taekwondo) won Bronze.
In the Male Light Weight category, Joel Mario (Asorock Taekwondo) took Gold, Anya Joseph Ndukwe (Asorock Taekwondo) secured Silver Abdulmalik Saidu (FCT Taekwondo) won Bronze.
The KCCN’s Chuseok celebration successfully showcased Korean culture and Ssireum’s potential in Nigeria.
According to Ogunmuyiwa, “Ssireum promotes unity and friendship among participants. We look forward to expanding its reach in Nigeria.”