Arunachal: The All-India K-pop Contest 2024 Grand Finale lit up the Yashobhoomi International Exhibition and Convention Centre in New Delhi with a spectacular display of talent and passion for Korean music and culture.
Organised by the Korean Cultural Centre India (KCCI), the event drew K-pop fans and performers from across the country for an evening that celebrated creativity and global unity through music and dance.
Arunachal Pradesh’s dance group The Trend captivated the audience with their electrifying performance of Stray Kids’ God’s Menu, winning the top prize in the dance category. In the vocal competition, Kolkata’s Abhipriya Chakraborty stole the spotlight with her soulful rendition of IU’s Love Wins All, earning her the top honor. Both champions will now embark on an exciting cultural journey to Korea, gaining an opportunity to explore the heart of K-pop and its traditions.
The contest also highlighted several other standout performances. New Delhi’s Outkasts earned the dance category’s first runner-up title with their performance of Nmixx’s O.O, while Hyderabad’s Sejal Dubey took the second runner-up spot with her interpretation of Taemin’s Criminal. Vocal category finalists included Bem Khuvung of New Delhi as first runner-up with Still Love You and Kohima’s Nuu Anu as second runner-up with You Are My Everything.
With over 10,500 registrants from cities such as Bengaluru, Chennai, Itanagar, and Mumbai, this year’s contest marked the event’s largest turnout in its 14-year history. The 12 finalists, chosen through rigorous regional and semifinal rounds, performed under the scrutiny of a distinguished panel of judges that included renowned choreographer Park Bong-Young.
The evening was further enhanced with cultural activities like a Vegan Kimchi-making workshop led by Korean chef Jang Yun Jeong and an energetic K-pop Random Play Dance session hosted by YouTube sensation Go Tae-kyung, affectionately known as the “dancing pharmacist.” Fans were treated to a special live performance by rookie boy group LUN8, whose dynamic stage presence electrified the audience.
In a heartfelt gesture to K-pop enthusiasts, KCCI hosted a giveaway, with two lucky fans, Amisha Chettry and Elly M Swu, winning round-trip tickets to Korea. Attendees also took home exclusive K-pop merchandise, adding to the excitement of the evening.
KCCI Director Hwang Il Yong thanked Indian fans for their passionate support, saying, “This Grand Finale was made possible because of your love for K-pop. We look forward to creating an even more spectacular event next year for all our Indian fans.”
The event not only celebrated talent but also strengthened cultural bonds, leaving fans eager for the next edition of the iconic contest.
Read More: Triple Tragedy Strikes Assam Roads