If you’ve ever fallen down the K-drama rabbit hole at 2 am or spent way too much time picking your next K-beauty serum, you’re in for some good news. The UAE has officially embraced its love for all things Korean. And, finally, it’s taking that passion to a brand-new level. The UAE has announced plans for K-City. Expect a dedicated destination that brings Korean food, culture and products under one exciting roof.
UAE’s New K-City: A Big, Bold Celebration of Korean Culture In The Heart Of The Gulf
According to the Filipino Times, K-City is part of a collaboration between the UAE and the Korean government. Basically, it is designed to bring together K-culture, K-food and Korean-led business ventures. While full details are still under wraps, the vision is to create a space that feels like stepping into a corner of Seoul without boarding a plane.
And honestly? It makes perfect sense. The Korean Wave, better known as Hallyu, has taken the UAE by storm. K-dramas, movies, K-pop, beauty products, people here are hooked. Dubai has already welcomed major Korean stars, K-pop festivals and concerts this year. Even Global Village turned into a sea of cheering fans during its K-pop festival in November.
The UAE’s K-Culture Buzz Is Real
Korean beauty stores are popping up everywhere. Soundtracks from K-dramas are filling venues. Even niche films like Kpop Demon Hunters have turned casual watchers into full-time fans. A recent K-culture event in Abu Dhabi even featured a full sing-along of its soundtrack. The event also had K-food booths, K-beauty displays and traditional Korean dance performances. It’s the perfect teaser of what K-City could bring on a much larger scale.
Did you know, Abu Dhabi is hosting DREAM Concert later in November, a massive K-pop festival that usually sells out stadiums in Korea.
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A Project Built On Strong Ties
K-City was announced after a state visit by South Korea’s newly elected President Lee Jae Myung. Both nations reaffirmed their close relationship and highlighted their shared goal of making the UAE a hub for cultural exchange.
The location and size of K-City are yet to be released. What we do know is that it’s part of a bigger plan to strengthen people-to-people connections and grow cooperation in fields like energy, national defence, public health and education.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/Pratchaya from Getty Images, kppwc25