The Rise of Korean Culture in India: K-Pop, K-Dramas, and K-Fashion

Francesca M. Healy

Here are some of the latest trends in Korean culture that are becoming popular in India:

  1. K-Pop Influence:
    • Concerts and Events: The “Rang De Korea” festival is one example of how K-pop concerts and events are being organized in India to showcase Korean culture. These events not only highlight music but also include elements of K-fashion and K-food, making them comprehensive cultural experiences​ ​.
    • K-Pop Music: Bands like BTS and solo artists like Psy have a massive following in India. BTS’s music, in particular, resonates deeply with the Indian youth, leading to fan clubs and social media groups dedicated to them.
  2. K-Dramas:
    • Popularity and Adaptations: Korean dramas, commonly known as K-dramas, are immensely popular in India. Their influence is evident in the adaptations of several K-dramas into Bollywood films. The appeal of K-dramas lies in their unique storytelling and high production values, making them a favorite among Indian viewers​.
  3. K-Food:
    • Korean Cuisine: The demand for Korean food like kimchi, Korean fried chicken, and ramyeon is on the rise. Korean expatriates in India are introducing local audiences to authentic Korean dishes through food delivery platforms. Indian restaurants are also beginning to include Korean dishes on their menus to cater to this growing interest​.
  4. Webtoons:
    • Rising Popularity: Webtoons, a form of digital comics originating from South Korea, have gained a significant following among Indian youth. Platforms like Kross Komics have seen a substantial increase in downloads and active users in India, indicating a growing interest in this format of storytelling​​.
  5. K-Fashion:
    • Fashion Trends: Korean fashion trends are making their way into the Indian market. The influence is visible in the outfits worn by K-pop idols and K-drama characters, which are being adopted by Indian fashion enthusiasts. This trend is supported by collaborations between Korean artists and major fashion houses, further boosting its popularity​.