A taste of Korea in Nairobi: Kenyans gather to enjoy Korean food, beauty and technology

Dubbed K-Lifestyle, the event offered Kenyan consumers and businesses the opportunity to directly engage, highlighting the growing commercial connections between Kenya and Korea.

The event brought together citizens from both countries who enjoyed Korea’s best known dishes, and witnessed firsthand the latest technology from Korea, and the booming beauty industry.

Behind the tastings and performances was a commercial proposition. The event was organised by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea to Kenya (KOTRA), and gave Korean brands a direct exposure to Kenyan consumers while creating opportunities to meet potential importers , distributors, retailers and other business partners.

“Kenya is an important partner for Korea, and our relationship is increasingly being shaped not only by government cooperation, but by businesses and people discovering what we can offer each other. K-Lifestyle brings that relationship to life,” said Hyung-dhik Kang, Korean ambassador to Kenya.

Visitors encountered Korean cuisine through food preparation and tasting experiences, while skincare, cosmetics and beauty demonstrations provided another entry point into contemporary Korean consumer culture. 

Technology also provides a bridge into the wider economic relationship between the two countries, with cooperation extending into areas including ICT, science, and technology, infrastructure and manufacturing.

“Kenya’s relationship with Korea gives us an opportunity to learn from a country that has built significant capabilities in industrial and technology innovations. For us, the conversation is about how that experience can translate into investment, skills, technology partnerships and practical opportunities for Kenyan and Korean businesses to work together,” said Eng. John Tanui,  Kenya’s ICT Principal Secretary.