Xtreme Movement Crew captivated fans of Korean pop music in Abuja to emerge winner of the 2025 K-pop Festival with an electrifying performance that blended Nigerian flair with Korean choreography.
The annual K-pop Festival, organised by the Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria (KCCN), featured 18 finalists—10 singing teams and eight dancing groups—who competed in their respective categories during the vibrant grand finale held in the capital city.
The three-member Xtreme Movement Crew thrilled both judges and audience with their energetic performance of “Ice On My Teeth” by Ateez, earning them the top spot in the dance category. In addition to clinching the N800,000 cash prize, the crew secured a chance to represent Nigeria at the international finals. They also won the popularity prize, receiving an additional N200,000 based on audience votes.
Another group, Xtreme Dance Crew, took second place and won N600,000, while Zoned-IN DC placed third with a prize of N400,000.
In the singing category, Macwhitney Myles emerged as the winner and received N500,000, along with a ticket to compete internationally. Goodness Ohwodiasa came second and received N300,000, while Onuh Blessing took third place with a N200,000 prize.
Speaking after the event, Damina Loka, leader of the winning dance group, said the journey was challenging but rewarding. “Words cannot describe how we feel right now. We’ve been rehearsing since February, drawing inspiration from Ateez and adding our own Nigerian style,” he said. He also revealed plans to start K-pop dance classes in Abuja to further grow the genre’s local community.
Macwhitney Myles, the singing category winner, shared her experience: “I’ve been preparing for this moment for over a year. I first learned the song a while ago, and after four years of competing, I’m grateful to finally win.”
Judge Praise Nelson, a former K-pop contest winner, remarked that selecting the winner was a close call, noting that the top group won by just one point. “It’s amazing to witness the growth of K-pop in Nigeria,” he added.
In his opening speech, Mr Jeon Ju Ho, Director of KCCN, said the K-pop Festival symbolises global cultural exchange and creativity. “Korean culture has found a bright and special home in Nigeria. We are proud of the musical talent here and will continue to strengthen cultural ties,” he said.
The festival also featured guest performances, audience voting, and a raffle draw. It forms part of broader efforts to promote Korean culture and deepen cultural ties between Nigeria and South Korea.
(NAN)