Nigerian Film ‘My Sunshine’ Captivates Audiences with Korean Language and K-Drama Tropes

 Nigerian Film ‘My Sunshine’ Captivates Audiences with Korean Language and K-Drama Tropes

Nigerian Film ‘My Sunshine’ Captivates Audiences with Korean Language and K-Drama Tropes

The Nigerian film industry has taken an exciting turn with the release of ‘My Sunshine,’ a movie that beautifully blends Nigerian storytelling with the beloved elements of Korean culture. Drawing inspiration from K-dramas, this hour-and-15-minute film showcases a vibrant mix of languages, primarily featuring Korean, English, and Yoruba, captivating audiences with its unique charm.




The film opens with two schoolgirls, both sporting long dreadlocks, animatedly chatting on their way to school. Phrases such as “daebak” (amazing) and “geunde” (but) pepper their conversation, setting the tone for a film where Korean language and culture are not merely nods but a central part of the narrative. As the day unfolds, teachers greet each other with a cheerful “annyeonghaseyo” (hello), while the principal proudly proclaims, “Korean is the greatest language in the world,” highlighting the film’s affectionate homage to Korea.

Korean Influence Throughout the Film

In ‘My Sunshine,’ Korean language permeates school life, with expressions like “assah” (yay), “eotteokhae” (what should I do?), and “ppalli” (hurry up) integrated into the dialogue. The protagonist, Karis, even refers to her mother as “eomma” (mom in Korean) rather than using English or Yoruba terms, showcasing the cultural crossover in everyday interactions.




The film also features visually engaging elements, such as Korean writing on a school bulletin board reading “학교 발표” (school prom). In one humorous scene, a male student approaches the female lead wearing a T-shirt that reads “PROM 같이 갈래” (Will you go to the prom with me?), illustrating the fun fusion of languages.

Classic K-Drama Tropes

‘My Sunshine’ doesn’t shy away from K-drama clichés, which fans of the genre will appreciate. Karis, hailing from a humble background, earns a scholarship to attend the prestigious Saint Paul Baptist High School. Here, she crosses paths with the wealthy and popular Gerald, igniting a romance that echoes iconic dramas like ‘The Heirs’ and ‘Boys Over Flowers.’ The film includes a “queen bee” clique that harbors jealousy toward Karis and a love triangle involving a kind-hearted boy who secretly admires her.




As the emotional stakes rise, the soundtrack features Korean songs, including an endearing rendition of “You Are My Sunshine,” performed with a charming yet imperfect Korean accent, further immersing viewers in the narrative.

Behind the Scenes

Directed by JJC Skillz, a renowned Nigerian rapper and producer, and written by Kemi Ikuseedun, a talented actress and content creator who also stars in the film, ‘My Sunshine’ has garnered local praise. Critics have hailed it as “the first Nigerian movie to incorporate Korean language,” dubbing it an “innovative fusion of Nigerian cinema and Korean culture.”




The film was released on October 6th and has quickly gained traction, amassing 606,000 views on YouTube within just nine days, highlighting its popularity among viewers.

Netizens' Reactions

The positive reception is reflected in netizens’ comments, celebrating the film’s unique approach and cultural blend:




 “This is such a creative way to merge cultures! I love seeing K-drama tropes in a Nigerian setting. Can’t wait to watch!”

 “Jimin would be so proud! This movie makes me want to learn Korean even more!”

 “Who knew Nigerian films could embrace K-drama so well? The use of language is spot on!”

 “I’m living for the queen bee trope! Classic K-drama at its best, and I love how they’ve made it their own!”

 “The soundtrack is a perfect touch. I’m loving the mix of English and Korean—definitely adds a unique flavor to the film!”









‘My Sunshine’ not only entertains but also serves as a bridge between cultures, showcasing the universal language of storytelling through the lens of Nigerian and Korean influences. With its innovative approach and endearing charm, the film has captured the hearts of viewers, establishing a new trend in cross-cultural cinema that is sure to resonate for years to come.