Whether you’re a certified K-Pop stan (fun fact: Rosé from Blackpink went to high school in Melbourne!), know your bulgogi from your bibimbap, or are simply interested in learning more about Korea, this is the event for you.
The Korea Festival is coming back to Fed Square from May 24-25 for an epic two-day celebration of Korean culture, cuisine, traditions and a special area dedicated to the Netflix smash-hit show, Squid Game. And best of all, it’s free!
The fun program includes cultural performances by the Saengdonggam Crew (a b-boy dancing group) and the chance to make kimbap (a dish similar to sushi made from rice, raw fish and veggies), plus plenty of stalls and cultural booths selling everything from authentic Korean dishes to crafts and clothing.
And you won’t want to miss the high-energy K-Pop showdown featuring some of Melbourne’s hottest musical talents. Industry professionals will judge the top vocals and impressive choreography as performers battle it out for a spot in the prestigious KBS K-Pop World Festival.
This year, in honour of one of Netflix’s hottest shows, there’s even going to be an epic Squid Game activation – and yes, you will be able to play the iconic Red Light Green Light game, complete with a fully operational, full-size Young-Hee doll. Good luck trying not to flinch. There will also be plenty of opportunities to take photos with sets inspired by the show. We’re talking the Labyrinth stairs, VIP room and pink-bowed coffins.
Be sure to keep an eye out for the team of trained pink guards – they’ll be running everything, of course.
The Squid Game area will be located in the Fed Square Plaza Precinct and is limited to people aged 15 years and over. It’s all part of the hype surrounding season three of the blockbuster series, which is set to drop on Netflix on June 27. Will Seong Gi-hun make it out alive? Will Hwang Jun-ho realise his brother is the much-feared Front Man? And will the deadly game be shut down forever? You’ll just have to tune in to find out.
For more information on the Korea Festival, head to the website.
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