Kim Hyun-bin began his journalism career at Arirang TV from 2012 to 2017, specializing in defense, foreign affairs and the economy. In 2018, he joined The Korea Times, covering society and business, and is currently responsible for embassy affairs.
Korea, India celebrate 50 years of diplomatic ties with SARANG Festival
Official pamphlet of the SARANG Festival / Courtesy of Embassy of India in Korea
By Kim Hyun-bin
Korea and India are commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties this year, marked by a multitude of cultural exchange programs, including "SARANG ― The Festival of India," which is scheduled for Wednesday.
The festival is the flagship initiative of the Embassy of India in Seoul. This year, SARANG Festival celebrates its 9th anniversary.
SARANG serves as a cultural bridge, inviting Koreans to explore the ancient, colorful and diverse heritage of India. Since its inception, SARANG has grown both in scale and popularity, playing a pivotal role in strengthening the bonds between the two nations. The term SARANG holds profound significance for both Koreans and Indians, symbolizing “love” in Korean and “diversity” representing different colors of India.
As an integral part of the festival, the Embassy of India showcases India's rich cultural tapestry through various art forms such as dance, music, and cuisine. This vivid portrayal of diversity captivates the hearts and minds of the local Korean community, fostering a deep sense of affection and friendship between the people of the two countries.
This year's SARANG Festival promises to dazzle audiences with mesmerizing performances of Indian classical dance forms, particularly Bharatanatyam.