Celebrating many years of relationship between India and South Korea, the Korean Cultural Centre in India organised the Korea-India Friendship Quiz Competition 2018 that brought out some in-depth knowledge about Korea. The event drew students from all over Delhi and NCR region, many being fans of K-pop, Korean dramas and their culture.
Putting forward South Korea as a unique tourist destination for Indians and celebrating more than 44 years of relationship between Seoul and New Delhi, the Korean Cultural Centre India, organised the Korea-India Friendship Quiz 2018 in New Delhi on May 3.
The event drew students from all over Delhi and NCR region, many of who are fans of K-pop, Korean dramas and their culture. The competition brought into focus famous South Korean tourist destinations, delicacies, art, culture and heritage.
Approximately 20,384 students from 60 schools participated in the third edition of the Korea-India Friendship Quiz Competition and four of them won a free trip to Korea for six days and five nights. Another set of 20 winners received a cash prize of INR 51,000 and trophies.
The event was initiated to enhance students’ wide knowledge and interests in the Republic of Korea – from its history to cuisine. The number of participating students increased from 16,140 students in 2017 to 20,384 this year.
Top four winners with Shin Bong-kil (middle), and Kim Kum-pyoung (2nd from the left)
The event witnessed the presence of eminent representatives including Shin Bong-kil, ambassador of the Republic of Korea; Kim Kum-pyoung, director of Korean Cultural Centre India; and Kwon Jong Sool, director, Korean Tourism Organization.
The extravaganza was kicked-off amidst much fanfare and authentic Korean performances such as Taekwondo and traditional musical performances.
“I think this is the most successful Korean diplomacy, which I have ever seen. Friendship starts from getting to know each other and I am happy that the people here know so much about Korea and its culture. I am moved. I didn’t know that so many people with such enthusiasm will participate and would know so much about the country,” says Shin Bong-kil.
“This contest is an important opportunity to introduce Korea and its culture to the students, the future of India. I’m convinced that they will contribute and play a major role in the bilateral relationship with their understanding of Korea,” Kim Kum-pyoung adds.
In a cultural infiltration, Korean dramas and culture are gradually invading young Indian hearts. So much so, Korean channels like Arirang and KBS World are aired in north-east India, and Tamil television network Puthuyugam translates K-dramas into Tamil and telecasts them.
To capitalise on this cultural craze, India’s film industry is also looking to Korea for inspiration, with Bollywood remakes of Korean movies including The Man From Nowhere, which was called Rocky Handsome in India, and Montage, retitled TE3N in its Bollywood version.
Other Bollywood remakes of Korean features like A Hard Day and Miracle In Cell No. 7, are also in line.
