India in Republic of Korea (Embassy of India, Seoul)
Ambassador Amit Kumar in his online address at the “6th India-Korea Business Partnership Forum” underlined the need for India and RoK, two top ten global economies to work even more closely, and highlighted efforts to deepen Special Strategic Partnership with focus on emerging areas namely advanced manufacturing, energytransitionEVs, secondarybatteries, semiconductors, electronics, greenhydrogen, technology and innovationconnect, etc.
The Forum was co-addressed by Mr Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary, Department for Promotion for Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT); Mr. Yang Byung Nae, ROK Deputy Minister, Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE); ROK Ambassador to India, H.E. Chang Jae-bok and other dignitaries.
The Forum was jointly organized by CII and KITA on 7 Nov 2023 in New Delhi with the theme 'Enduring Business Partnership @50 and beyond', to explore business opportunities for strategic partnership and business cooperation in the backdrop of 50 years of India-RoK diplomatic relations.
The Embassy in partnership with Coffee Board of India set up an IndianPavilion at Seoul International CafeShow held at Coex from 08-11 Nov 2023.
Four Indian exhibitors participated in the event and showcased their products. Engaging participation and interaction of visitors with exhibitors, as they tasted and appreciated the unique aroma of Indian coffee during the event, attended by over 600 exhibitors from more than 40 countries.
The 11th edition of Indian FilmFestival in the Republic of Korea started from 14-18 November 2023, as part of SARANG, the annual flagship cultural program organized by the Embassy of India. The Film Festival also celebrates 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador of India Amit Kumar conveyed his heartfelt gratitude to the Korean Film Archive (KOFA) for their valuable support to the Indian film festival over the years. He underlined that this festival offers an opportunity to explore the commonalities that bind Indians and Koreans together. Acting as a bridge, it connects both nations through the captivating lens of cinema. Mr. Kim Hong-jun, Director, KOFA conveyed that they are very pleased to co-hosting 'Indian Film Festival', since 2016, and to introduce recent Indian films to Korean audiences helping broaden Korean understanding of Indian culture.
The Indian Film festival opened with the film “RRR,” which stands for “Rise Roar and Revolt.” Its song “Naatu Naatu” had made history by becoming the first Indian film song to win an Oscar2023. The movie received a big round of applause from the Korean audience at the end. The festival showcases a retrospective of Indian films, including RRR, Andhadhun (Blind Melody), Neerja, TanuManuReturns, and Sinjar.
Indian cinema has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century and has evolved into a dynamic and diverse industry. It produces films that resonate with global audiences through thought-provoking narratives, powerful performances, and groundbreaking innovation, reflecting India’s vibrant and multi-faceted culture.
SARANG, the Embassy’s annual cultural festival has so far included performances by Bharatnatyam troupe across different cities, India-Korea Artist Camp at Nami Island and Art Exhibition by the Korea-India Contemporary Artists Association in Seoul during September-October period this year. In addition to the ongoing Indian Film Festival, there are upcoming Indian Food and Culinary events at the Korean Food Promotion Institute (KFPI) and other cultural programs.