Embassy of India
Seoul
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Press Release
The Ambassador of India to the Republic of Korea, Shri Gourangalal Das, hosted a reception to celebrate the 77th Republic Day on January 26, 2026. The Chief Guest of the event was, H.E. Deputy Minister for Public Diplomacy, Mr. Lim Sang-woo, from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
2. More than 600 people attended the reception including, Ambassadors, senior representatives from the ROK government, businesses, universities, think tanks, academia, media, the cultural sphere, members of the diplomatic community and the Indian diaspora.
3. In his address, Ambassador Gourangalal Das highlighted India’s progress, technological advances, and the 10th anniversary of the India-Korea Special Strategic Partnership, noting renewed bilateral engagement since South Korea’s presidential election last year. He said that India sought to transform the relationship even further while highlighting renewed high-level political exchanges over the past six months, deepening defense cooperation, and growing Korean business presence in India, including LG, KB Securities, Mirae Asset, Hyundai Motor and POSCO.
4. Deputy Minister for Public Diplomacy, Mr. Lim Sang Woo from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in his remarks reiterated the deep historical ties with India and expressed his commitment to further strengthen the relationship as India and ROK commemorate the 10th anniversary of Special Strategic Partnership. He highlighted three main pillars of the relationship, the first being economic cooperation,the foundation of the partnership;security and defense which have emerged as a core pillar of the partnership and people-to-people and cultural exchanges which ensures that the partnership remains durable and future-oriented. He expressed his hope further strengthen the cooperation.
5. A Children's Choir Group – ‘Brilliante” rendered the National Anthems of both India and ROK. Rass Dance Company performed Marathi folk dances “Lavani”, known for its rhythmic Dholki beats and female dancers in Nauvari sarees showcasing Maharashtra's diverse traditions for festivals, harvests, and celebrations. Guests also enjoyed the delicious Indian cuisine and experienced the vibrant legacy of India through an exclusive textile exhibition “Thread of Legacy” showcasing traditional fabrics from various Indian states. Each display reflected the unique cultural identity, craftsmanship, and weaving traditions passed down through generations. To mark the occasion, Sevit Island was illuminated in the tricolors of the Indian flag.
Seoul
28 January 2026
