The Seoul Africa Festival (SAF) was held on September 13, 2025, in the South Korean capital. For its 8th edition, this major event, an authentic bridge between Africa and Korea brought together diplomats, artists, African communities, and a large Korean audience eager for discovery. Thanks to exemplary mobilization, Gabon played a leading role, combining diplomacy, creativity, and civic engagement.
From the very first hours of the festival, Gabon stood out through its participation in the grand official parade of African nations. Draped in national and traditional attire, compatriots offered a performance both vibrant and symbolic, warmly applauded by spectators. But one of the main attractions was, without a doubt, the Gabonese stand, designed as a true showcase of identity. In a welcoming and convivial atmosphere, visitors were able to discover part of the country’s cultural heritage: dances, African hair-braiding demonstrations, local crafts, and cultural objects displayed and offered for sale. This immersive moment, made possible by the dedication of community volunteers, embodied Gabonese hospitality and creativity.
The evening continued with a highlight: The fashion show. Models, joined by volunteer compatriots, took to the stage to present Gabonese outfits that blended tradition and modernity. Elegance, originality, and energy captivated the large audience, confirming Gabon’s place as a key player in African creativity in Asia. Gabon’s participation was not limited to popular festivities. The day before the festival, the organizers held an official dinner in honor of the diplomatic corps accredited to Korea. More than a gesture of hospitality, this dinner was an instrument of cultural diplomacy, fostering dialogue, networking, and the strengthening of bilateral and multilateral relations.
This success was the result of close collaboration between the Gabonese Embassy in Korea and Samba Corée. The two entities joined forces to ensure a Gabonese presence that was structured, creative, and meaningful. This commitment was praised by His Excellency the Ambassador of Gabon to Korea, who delivered an official message of congratulations to Samba Corée and the entire community:
“You were able to mobilize to ensure Gabon’s successful and highly noted presence at this important event, by offering activities that highlighted a part of our cultural heritage. (…) The Embassy will always be ready to support you.”
By combining community mobilization (booth, activities, volunteers), artistic expression (fashion shows, cultural performances), and institutional initiative (diplomatic dinner), Gabon demonstrated its ability to unite its strengths to shine on the international stage. SAF 2025 will remain a milestone for the country: a showcase of creativity, solidarity, and influence, carried by its diaspora and recognized by its institutions. A participation that reminds us how culture, more than ever, is a lever of diplomacy and global outreach.