K-POPMANIA HITS H-TOWN

THE Korean Wave is no longer knocking on Zimbabwe’s door – it has officially moved in. Young Zimbabweans sang along to their favourite K-pop hits, showed off slick dance moves inspired by global superstars BTS, Stray Kids and Blackpink, while others queued to sample authentic Korean dishes and experience the latest K-beauty trends. The biggest roar of the day came when Stephanie walked away with the Grand Prize in the K-pop Cover Dance and Singing Competition after delivering a breathtaking performance of Stray Kids’ smash hit Chk Chk Boom.

Her energetic performance had the audience on its feet, with many recording videos on their phones as judges applauded her confidence, precision and stage presence. Away from the competition, fans said the festival demonstrated just how deeply Korean culture has found a home in Zimbabwe. “It felt like we had travelled to Korea without leaving Harare,” said one excited festival-goer.

“I’ve been watching K-dramas for years, but attending the festival made me appreciate Korean culture even more. Another fan said the event had become one of the highlights on Zimbabwe’s entertainment calendar. “Every year it gets bigger.

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We are seeing more young people embracing Korean culture. It is no longer just about music—it is about learning a different way of life.” Others said what impressed them most was seeing Zimbabweans confidently performing Korean songs and dances before cheering crowds. The event also featured a lively K-Quiz competition, Korean food tasting sessions and K-beauty exhibitions that attracted huge interest, especially among young women eager to learn more about the skincare products that have made South Korea a global beauty powerhouse.

Speaking during the awards ceremony, Ambassador Jaekyung Park celebrated the growing friendship between Zimbabwe and South Korea through culture. Quoting global music icons BTS, he said he hoped that “music can be heard and loved simply as music, beyond regions and languages.” He said K-pop had become one of the world’s strongest cultural bridges, proving that music has the power to unite people regardless of nationality, race or language.

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