Delhi is set to experience a vibrant celebration of Korean culture through the two-day Rang de Korea festival, scheduled for October 28 and 29, 2023. The event aims to introduce Indian audiences, particularly young people, to different aspects of Korean culture, including K-pop, fashion, food and beauty.

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The festival is part of the cultural events planned to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and South Korea. Its programme is expected to feature K-pop performances, traditional Korean music, cultural games, Taekwondo demonstrations and a fashion show reinterpreting the traditional Korean outfit known as hanbok.

Korean music has gained a strong following among Indian audiences, with K-pop becoming an important part of the cultural exchange between the two countries. Singer Neeti Mohan joined a local K-pop cover dance team to highlight the value of cultural interaction, while Korean idol group MustB also performed as part of the celebrations.

The growing popularity of Korean culture is also reflected in interest in learning the Korean language. According to figures cited in the report, enrolment at King Sejong Institutes in India increased from 2,082 students in 2020 to 9,696 in 2022. The figures highlight the rising interest among Indian learners in Korean language and culture.

A K-Culture Conference also brought together students from King Sejong Institutes and learners at the Korean Cultural Centre India to discuss their experiences, ambitions and ideas for promoting Korean culture.

India and South Korea have steadily developed cultural ties since establishing diplomatic relations in 1973. Initiatives such as Rang de Korea aim to strengthen these connections by encouraging young people to discover each other’s traditions, creative industries and cultural experiences.