In January 2025, 바카라 magazine released an issue titled K-TOP: Into The New World, highlighting the expanding footprint of Korean culture in India. From the global craze for K-pop and K-dramas to the rising popularity of Korean literature, skincare, and cuisine, the issue explored how Korean culture has seamlessly woven itself into the daily lives of many Indians.
In a letter to 바카라 editor Chinki Sinha, the Korean Cultural Centre in India of the Korean Embassy has appreciated and acknowledged the magazine라이브 바카라 effort in highlighting the depth and influence of Korean culture.
“I would like to express my gratitude to you and the entire team of journalists at 바카라 magazine for their hard work in compiling this special issue,” the letter signed by Hwang il Yong, Director of Korean Cultural Centre, read. “It was a well-researched edition that covered different aspects of Korean culture in an extensive manner.”
The issue touched upon the rising popularity of Korean literature in India, particularly the works of Han Kang, who was named the 2024 Nobel Literature Laureate. Books like Pachinko, which explores the journey of a Korean immigrant family in Japan, have resonated with Indian readers, further strengthening cultural ties between the two nations.
The letter added that "Korean culture has experienced a remarkable growth in India over the last few years, and this has primarily taken shape because of the young and dynamic population of India. The eleven articles related to different aspects of Korean culture in the magazine highlighted this aspect very well.”
With K-TOP: Into The New World, 바카라 magazine has provided a comprehensive look at how Hallyu—the Korean Wave—continues to shape cultural trends in India.
