A Cultural Tsunami Lands in Canberra
Dive into the global phenomenon sweeping airwaves, screens, and wardrobes, Hallyu! The Korean Wave arrives in Australia for the first time (and the first time in the Southern Hemisphere). Created by London’s Victoria & Albert Museum, this exhibition tracks the transformation of South Korea from a regional cultural producer to a global powerhouse of pop culture.
You’ll explore over 250 artefacts, from stage costumes and film props to design pieces and immersive installations, that chart the rise of Korean music, screen stories, fashion, beauty, and fan culture. Expect to see big names like PSY, aespa, Parasite, Squid Game and more.
The Rise of K-Pop: From Local Idol Factories to Global Dominance
The K-pop movement exploded far beyond Korea’s borders to dominate international charts, thanks to razor-sharp production, social media, and a meticulously trained system of talent development. What began in the late 1990s as a regional trend evolved into a full-blown cultural export: groups like BTS, Blackpink, TWICE and NCT now tour stadiums worldwide, and their fandoms operate like well-oiled engines of engagement. This exhibition will showcase how Korea turned song, dance, storytelling, fashion, and more into a worldwide movement with modern cultural marketing and community building.
What to Expect
- Props & Costumes: Stagewear, film wardrobes, performance gear
- Media & Screens: Clips, behind-the-scenes footage, interactive displays
- Design & Beauty: How Korean aesthetics fed fashion, skincare, visuals
- Performance Zones: Try a K-pop dance challenge, feel the beat, step into choreography
- Fandom & Engagement: Explore how fans co-create and shape K-culture
Canberra Korean Guide
Keep the K-pop energy alive in Canberra by indulging in Korean BBQ, belting out tunes at karaoke bars, and capturing memories in an authentic Korean photobooth. Experience the sizzle of hotplates and the communal joy of share-style dining at Gaon Korean BBQ on Northbourne Ave or enjoy the all-you-can-eat feast at KorBQ, where premium meats and the mouthwatering aromas of bulgogi and gochujang fill the air. For a night of music, check out Hey Show Karaoke, a sleek, neon-lit spot in the city, or venture to a local favourite, K Bar Karaoke in Belconnen, both offering private rooms and an extensive Korean song library. Don’t miss Life4Cuts, a hidden gem and kor-culture highlight in Canberra, where you can snap a few memories in their authentic Korean-style photobooths. Paired with the Hallyu! exhibition, these experiences make Canberra the perfect setting for your own K-drama adventure.
Stay in the city
Located in the city, you’ll be just minutes from the National Museum, dining districts, and galleries with public transport at our doorstep. The spacious, sound-insulated rooms fitted with the signature Novotel Live N’Dream beds are perfect for recharging after a day of cultural exploration, while the indoor pool, gym, wine lounge, and on-site dining make it easy to relax or catch up on K-pop playlists. Staying close means you’ll have more time to explore and soak in Canberra’s vibe, to get the most out of your cultural weekend.
Novotel Canberra isn’t just a place to sleep, it’s your home base for a relaxing getaway experience.
