The dance group 3plus4crew, based in Delhi, triumphed in the dance category during the grand finale of the All-India K-pop Contest 2025, India’s largest live tribute to Korean pop culture, held on a crisp Saturday evening. This highly anticipated event has grown exponentially in popularity since its inception, with 2025 marking yet another record year for participation and audience engagement.
Hosted by the Korean Cultural Centre India in New Delhi, the All-India K-pop Contest has served as a vibrant platform for aspiring young Indian K-pop fans since 2011. Each year, the contest showcases the incredible talent and dedication of participants, who come from diverse backgrounds united by their love for this dynamic genre of music and performance. The event not only celebrates the artistry of K-pop but also fosters a sense of community among fans, creators, and cultural ambassadors.
This year’s competition featured a highly esteemed special appearance by the K-pop boy band Nomad, who traveled all the way from South Korea to electrify the audience with their remarkable performances of tracks like “No Pressure,” “California Love,” “Compare,” and “Carnival.” Their presence added an exhilarating dimension to the event, allowing fans to experience live performances from artists they admire and look up to. The crowd erupted with excitement, singing along and cheering as Nomad brought the stage to life, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
In the grand finale, 3plus4crew dazzled the crowd with their vibrant and energetic rendition of “Super” by Seventeen. Their performance showcased not just their technical skills but also their passion and dedication to the art of dance. Dressed in matching outfits and synchronized in their movements, the group transported the audience into the colorful and dynamic world of K-pop, demonstrating the months of hard work that had led them to this pivotal moment.
In addition to dance, the contest also featured a vocal category, where Shylee Preetam, hailing from Hyderabad, claimed the top spot with her stunning performance of “U & I” by Ailee. Her voice captivated the audience, earning her a well-deserved standing ovation. Furthermore, this year saw the introduction of a rap category, remarkably won by Riniya Taku from Itanagar, who delivered an impressive rendition of “Backpacker” by Zerobaseone. This addition highlighted the ongoing evolution of K-pop, reflecting its diverse styles and the talent present within India’s burgeoning music scene.
Each of the three winners received a cash prize of Rs 2,00,000 and the opportunity to represent India at the K-Pop World Festival in South Korea later this year. This golden opportunity not only serves as an acknowledgment of their talent but also as a stepping stone towards international recognition and career advancement within the K-pop industry. For these three individuals, the contest is not just about winning but about embarking on an exciting journey that could shape their future in significant ways.
The 2025 edition of the All-India K-Pop festival recorded an impressive 1,278 registrations, attracting participants from cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Bhopal, Itanagar, and Kohima. This wide geographic representation underscores the extensive reach and influence of K-pop within India, revealing that the genre has transcended regional boundaries, bringing together fans from various backgrounds and cultures.
“The contest symbolizes the strong cultural connection between Korea and India. The enthusiasm for K-pop and Korean culture in India continues to grow, and I hope that the relationship between our two nations strengthens even further,” stated Hwang Il Yong, the Director of the Korean Cultural Centre India. His words resonate with the spirit of collaboration and cultural exchange that defines events like the All-India K-pop Contest, showcasing the potential for deeper ties between nations through the mediums of music and dance.
As the curtains closed on the 2025 All-India K-pop Contest, one thing was clear: the passion for K-pop in India is not merely a trend; it is a cultural phenomenon that continues to evolve, inspire, and connect people. The event has successfully nurtured budding talent while simultaneously strengthening the bridge between Indian and Korean cultures. In the years to come, as the K-pop landscape continues to expand globally, it will be fascinating to follow the journeys of contestants like 3plus4crew, Shylee Preetam, and Riniya Taku, who may very well play a role in shaping the future of K-pop in their homeland and beyond.
