South Korean Ambassador to India Lee Seong-ho said the growing popularity of K-culture and Bollywood is strengthening ties between the two countries. He stressed that this cultural exchange is now two-way, as interest in yoga and Indian culture is growing in Korea as well.
As cultural exchanges between India and South Korea increase, South Korean Ambassador to India Lee Seong-ho has stressed the growing role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening bilateral ties. Speaking to ANI, Lee Seong-ho described the growing popularity of K-culture and Bollywood as a bridge connecting the people of the two countries. He said, “Cultural diplomacy, soft power diplomacy, is becoming even more important in this era. Culture, soft power, is the main medium through which people of both the countries can understand each other. I am very happy to see the growing interest in Korean culture in India… We are ready to encourage this exchange in a mutually beneficial manner, but it should not be one-sided.”
Cultural exchange now two-way
Popularity of Indian culture is increasing in Korea also
The Ambassador also highlighted that South Koreans are also adopting Indian culture with increasing interest. He said yoga has become a popular family activity and the appeal of Indian cuisine and Bollywood films is also increasing, increasing cultural engagement between the two countries in both directions.
Lee added, “Koreans are also becoming more interested in learning about India’s culture. Yoga has already become a family hobby… Indian cuisine and movies are becoming more popular… It’s already two-way traffic, and it’s the best way to bring our two countries much closer.”
Told the role of governments is important
Emphasizing the role of governments in facilitating cultural exchange, the Ambassador said that both India and South Korea recognize its importance. He added, “We, as countries and governments, clearly recognize the importance of further promoting this cultural exchange, and we will continue to do so.”
Emphasis on economic and strategic relations also
The remarks come as Ambassador Lee Seong-ho explained how South Korea is hoping to deepen its economic and strategic ties with India, with a new emphasis on investment in shipbuilding, defense manufacturing and industrial cooperation. (ANI)
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