A celebration of Korean culture in Delhi

The Korean Cultural Centre India is set to host the third edition of ‘Rang De Korea’, India’s largest Korean culture festival, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Auditorium in New Delhi from October 18  to 19. This year’s festival will bring together a variety of K-culture content including K-beauty, K-food, K-fashion, K-crafts, and K-play, with performances from renowned Korean artists and groups. Events will alternate between the indoor performance hall and the outdoor plazas of the venue.

One of the highlights of the festival will be the semi-finals of the 14th All India K-Pop Contest, exclusively sponsored by LG Electronics India, which will take place on the evening of the second day. The contest will see 27 teams and 89 Indian K-pop enthusiasts, selected through online and regional rounds, compete in the song and dance categories.

Performances at the festival will include top acts such as K-pop stars NTX, Ha Minwoo, and a fusion of traditional and modern performances by groups like Uuheeska, Balkwang, and Pax Arari. Each performer brings a unique blend of Korean culture to the stage. NTX, a rising K-pop group that debuted in 2021, is known for their international tours in Brazil, the United States, and Japan. They will meet Indian fans for the first time with special fan meet-and-greet sessions on both days of the festival.

Ha Minwoo, who debuted in 2010 as part of the popular K-pop group ZE, will also perform. He has since pursued a solo career, releasing a single titled Let’s Be Happy in 2020.

Also Read: The Evolving Canvas of Korea, the possibility of K-Art

Uuheeska, a theater company, will present the Ninano Concert, a modern reinterpretation of Korea’s traditional comedy play featuring dance, song, and storytelling. This group gained recognition at global festivals and will perform in India for the first time.

Balkwang, a performance group specialising in Taekkyeon, a traditional Korean martial art registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, will bring their action-comedy show Let’s Go to See Fighting, blending Taekkyeon with rhythm and traditional Korean elements like the Burna (spinning top).

Pax Arari combines piano and traditional Korean instruments in a fusion that brings new life to Arari, a folk song from Jeongseon. Their unique sound bridges traditional and contemporary music, creating a performance designed to resonate with audiences worldwide.

In addition to the performances, the outdoor plaza will offer an immersive experience with booths showcasing Korean ramen, snacks, beauty products, Hanbok (traditional clothing), and K-pop and K-drama merchandise. Leading Korean companies in India such as LG, Samyang, and Orion will also participate, alongside local businesses and fan communities promoting Korean culture.

Hwang Il Yong, Director of the Korean Cultural Centre India, said, “Korean culture and the Korean Wave have now become mainstream in India, particularly in cities like Delhi and Mumbai. This festival aims to showcase the essence of authentic Korean culture, and we hope Indian fans enjoy the event while learning more about Korean traditions”.

When: October 18  to 19

Where: Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Auditorium, New Delhi