Victor Mac-adonai, a Nigerian influencer, has emerged as the winner of the 2026 Hansik (Korean food) contest, held in Abuja over the weekend. He outshone seven other finalists to claim the top prize in the third edition of the competition.
Organized by the Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria (KCCN), the Hansik contest is designed to help participants refine their skills in preparing traditional Korean dishes. This year’s theme, The Soul of Hansik, highlighted Jang-based Korean cuisine, including iconic dishes such as Jeyuk Bokkeum (spicy pork stir-fry), Kongnamul Muchim (seasoned soybean sprouts), Kimchi Jjigae (kimchi stew), Doenjang Jjigae (soybean paste stew), and Maekjeo (Doenjang-marinated pork).
The event was more than just a cooking contest. Guests also enjoyed a Hansik exhibition, photobooths, K-pop performances, chopstick challenges, games, and a raffle draw, creating a vibrant celebration of Korean culture.
Mac-adonai, visibly thrilled with his victory, shared that his passion for Korean culture fueled his dedication throughout the competition, beginning from the preparatory classes. He revealed that his goal was to become the first male winner of the Hansik contest, noting that women had dominated previous editions. For his dishes, he prepared Maekjeok, an ancient Korean recipe using Doenjang, and highlighted Doenjang Jjigae as his signature dish.
At the awards ceremony, Ms. Yinjin Lee, KCCN Event Planner and Programme Officer, explained that the competition began with 20 contestants, later narrowing to eight for the final round. She emphasized the focus on authenticity, stating that this year’s edition encouraged participants to explore the “soul of Hansik” by bringing creativity and traditional techniques together. The initiative also aims to raise awareness of Korean cuisine in Abuja, where Korean restaurants remain limited.
Mac-adonai received a 40-litre LG fridge for his first-place win. Ms. Faith Oluwasegun, who finished second, took home a 42-litre LG microwave, while third-place winner Ms. Favour Datiloe was awarded a blender and air fryer.
The 2026 edition of the Hansik contest not only showcased culinary talent but also highlighted the growing appreciation for Korean food culture in Nigeria, with Mac-adonai’s historic win marking a milestone in the competition’s history.
