The growing influence of Korean pop culture in India is no longer just a trend, it is now part of a larger cultural shift. From music charts to streaming platforms, K-pop and Korean dramas have steadily built a strong fan base across the country. Acknowledging this surge, Narendra Modi on April 20 highlighted how Korean entertainment is shaping cultural conversations in India, while also announcing a major step to deepen ties with South Korea.
PM Modi Highlights Growing Popularity of K-Drama and K-Pop
During a joint press conference with Lee Jae-myung, PM Modi announced the India–South Korea Friendship Festival, scheduled for 2028. The initiative aims to strengthen cultural exchange and celebrate the growing connection between the two nations.
“Today, K-pop and K-dramas are getting extremely popular in India. Similarly, the recognition of Indian cinema and culture is growing in Korea too. We are happy that President Lee also appreciates Indian cinema. To strengthen this cultural connect, we will organize India- South Korea Friendship Festival in 2028,” said the Prime Minister.
#WATCH | Delhi | In a joint press statement with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, PM Modi says, “Today, K-pop and K-dramas are getting extremely popular in India. Similarly, the recognition of Indian cinema and culture is growing in Korea too. We are happy that President Lee… pic.twitter.com/tMDqkEYQHC
— ANI (@ANI) April 20, 2026
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Cultural Exchange Goes Both Ways
The rise of Korean content in India has been matched by increasing interest in Indian films and culture in South Korea. President Lee echoed this sentiment, expressing admiration for Indian cinema and highlighting the importance of mutual cultural appreciation.
Glad to have welcomed President Lee on his first visit to India. His life and work are inspiring examples of service and dedication. Making this visit more special is the fact that this is the first visit by a President of the Republic of Korea in 8 years. Our nations are bound… pic.twitter.com/bo0Dwsw6sW
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 20, 2026
PM Modi also pointed to historical connections between the two countries, referencing the legend of Princess Suriratna of Ayodhya and King Kim Suro of Korea, a story believed to date back nearly 2,000 years. These shared cultural roots, he noted, continue to influence modern ties.
HYBE’s India Entry Signals A New Phase
The cultural momentum is also being reflected in the entertainment industry. HYBE, the label behind global K-pop acts like BTS, has launched a nationwide audition programme in India. The initiative, which began on March 31, 2026, will operate under HYBE INDIA, the company’s fifth global subsidiary.
This move could significantly change how Indian talent is discovered and trained, potentially opening doors for artists to enter the global K-pop ecosystem.
Strengthening Strategic And Economic Ties
President Lee’s visit to India goes beyond cultural exchange. His three-day trip to New Delhi included discussions on shipbuilding, artificial intelligence, and economic cooperation. He received a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, attended by Droupadi Murmu and PM Modi, with schoolchildren greeting him in traditional attire.
“Amidst ongoing supply chain instability and a global economic crisis stemming from the aftermath of the Middle East conflict, the Republic of Korea and India are emerging as increasingly vital strategic partners for one another,” Lee saidin a statement during his visit.
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Both countries are also looking to strengthen their 2010 economic partnership agreement. Bilateral trade has seen strong growth, rising from $14.2 billion at the time of the agreement to $26.89 billion in 2024–25, marking an increase of nearly 90 percent.
Summing Up
From K-pop playlists in Indian cities to Indian films finding audiences in Korea, the cultural exchange between the two nations is clearly deepening. The announcement of the 2028 Friendship Festival signals a long-term commitment to building on this momentum.
As both countries continue to collaborate across culture, business, and technology, the India–South Korea relationship is evolving into a partnership that blends tradition with modern global influence.
