NEW DELHI, Nov 25: The All-India K-pop Contest 2024 Grand Finale, held at the Yashobhoomi International Exhibition and Convention Centre in New Delhi, was a vibrant celebration of Korean music and culture. Organized by the Korean Cultural Centre India (KCCI), the event attracted K-Pop enthusiasts and performers from across the nation for an evening filled with creativity, originality, and global unity through music and dance.
The spotlight was on the performance of Arunachal Pradesh’s dance group, “The Trend,” who delivered an impressive rendition of Stray Kids’ “God’s Menu,” securing the top prize in the dance category. In the vocal category, Kolkata’s Abhipriya Chakraborty captivated the audience with her heartfelt performance of IU’s “Love All Wins,” earning her the top honor. Both winners were rewarded with an exciting trip to Korea.
Other notable performances included New Delhi’s Outkasts, who claimed the first runner-up title in the dance category with their version of NMIXX’s “O.O.” Hyderabad’s Sejal Dubey earned second runner-up with her interpretation of “Criminal” by Taemin. In the vocal section, Bem Khuvung from New Delhi was the first runner-up with “Still Love You,” while Nuu Anu from Kohima took the seventh runner-up spot with “You Are My Everything.”
This year’s contest saw a record-breaking 10,500 registrants from cities such as Chennai, Bangalore, Itanagar, and Mumbai, making it the most participated contest in 14 years. The finalists, 12 of whom were selected through tough regional and semifinal rounds, performed in front of a distinguished panel of judges, including renowned choreographer Park Bong-Young.
The event also featured a special vegan kimchi-making session by renowned Korean chef Jang Yun, and an energetic K-Pop Random Play Dance session led by YouTube sensation Go Tae Kyung, the “dancing pharmacist.” Additionally, the event included a live performance by rookie boy group LUN8, adding to the excitement of the evening.
Hwang Il Young, Director of KCCI, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and said, “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.”
