Korea has captured the world’s imagination through culture. But can it help shape what comes next? ⁠
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Join the KCCUK at Korea Forum 2026, where leading voices from business, culture, and diplomacy will explore how Korea’s global influence is evolving beyond K-pop, K-drama, and K-food into leadership across innovation, industry, and ideas. You can expect a thought-provoking discussion, networking opportunities, and fresh perspectives on Korea’s growing role in shaping the future. ⁠

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Presented by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the United Kingdom and the Korean Cultural Centre UK.⁠

LE SSERAFIM bring their PUREFLOW World Tour to London on 16 October 2026, marking the group’s first standalone UK concert and a major step in their expanding global footprint. Since debuting under Source Music/HYBE, the five‑member group have become one of K‑pop’s most closely watched acts, pairing precision choreography with a sleek, hybrid sound that moves between pop, R&B and electronic textures.

The PUREFLOW era introduces a new conceptual frame for the group, exploring themes of vulnerability, resilience and self‑reinvention. Expect a high‑production set that blends narrative‑driven staging with the group’s trademark performance intensity, alongside material from their forthcoming PUREFLOW pt.1 release.

For UK audiences tracking the rise of performance‑forward, globally oriented girl groups, LE SSERAFIM’s London stop is set to be a standout moment of the autumn touring calendar.

XG (Xtraordinary Genes) is a seven-member artist group consisting of JURIN, CHISA, HINATA, HARVEY, JURIA, MAYA, and COCONA. Unbound by innate attributes or predefined frameworks, XG unleashes the power and creativity that lie within each individual’s core. By continuously creating new culture without being constrained by convention, XG seeks to empower people across the world from all walks of life.

They debuted in March 2022 with their first single “Tippy Toes.” Since then, they’ve achieved a series of global milestones, including becoming the first Japanese artist ever to reach No. 1 on Billboard’s “Hot Trending Songs Powered by Twitter” weekly chart and appearing on the cover of Billboard magazine. Their second mini album, “AWE,” released in November 2024, marked their first-ever entry on the U.S. Billboard album chart, the Billboard 200.

Beginning in 2024, they launched their first world tour, “XG 1st WORLD TOUR ‘The first HOWL,’” holding 47 shows across 35 cities and drawing approximately 400,000 attendees. At the tour’s final show at Tokyo Dome on May 14, 2025, they captivated a crowd of around 50,000. At the “Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival,” one of the largest music festivals in the U.S., held in April 2025, they were the only Japanese artist to perform, headlined the Sahara stage, and received high acclaim from media in Japan and overseas. On January 23, 2026, XG released their first full album “THE CORE – 核,” which ranked in the Top 100 of the U.S. Billboard album chart “Billboard 200.” Since February 2026, they have been on their second world tour, “XG WORLD TOUR: THE CORE.”

The tour comes to London in September, marking XG’s biggest UK show to date. The seven‑member hip-hop/R&B girl group — known for precision choreography, multilingual flow and a string of global hits including Left Right and Puppet Show — continue their rapid rise with a full arena production. Expect high‑energy performance, razor‑sharp vocals and the group’s signature futuristic aesthetic.

Singer and actor KANG YUCHAN debuted in 2017 as a member of A.C.E and has continued to build a diverse career on the global stage. Alongside his musical activities, he has also established a solid acting career, expressing his journey of growth as an artist who stays true to himself through his music from20 is captivating global fans with his trendy vocals and powerful performances. With witty lyrics and a bold, seductive visual, he is rapidly rising as a next-generation sexy icon.

Since joining WAY BETTER in 2025, Kang Yuchan has continued to develop his solo artistry through a series of releases and creative collaborations with label founder from20. Most recently, the two artists released “BODY TALK (from20 Remix)”, showcasing their musical synergy and shared artistic vision.

Building on this momentum, Kang Yuchan and from20 will embark on their 2026 European Tour “BODY TALK”, bringing their dynamic live performances and distinctive sound to audiences across Europe.

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Following the release of their acclaimed new EP Motto and the launch of their global ITZY 3RD WORLD TOUR earlier this year, international K-pop superstars ITZY have announced the European and UK leg of the tour, presented by Live Nation.

ITZY 3rd World Tour in Europe/UK supports the group’s acclaimed November mini-album TUNNEL VISION, which debuted at No. 4 on Billboard’s World Albums chart. The tour also arrives amid continued excitement surrounding Motto, ITZY’s latest EP featuring eight new tracks, including its infectious title track, which further showcases the group’s confidence, artistry, and evolution.

Former B.A.P leader, rapper and producer Bang Yongguk returns to London this September with the latest chapter of his acclaimed Haebang (解方) tour. Known for his gravel‑toned delivery, introspective lyricism and a production style that blends brooding hip‑hop with cinematic instrumentation, Yongguk has carved out one of the most distinctive solo paths among second‑generation idols.

His recent releases continue to push into darker, more reflective territory, pairing tightly controlled live performance with a raw emotional register that has earned him a dedicated international following. The intimate scale of Dingwalls makes this a rare chance to experience his work up close — a contrast to the larger venues he’s commanded across Asia and North America.

Expect a set that moves between atmospheric new material, fan‑favourite solo tracks, and the kind of tightly honed stagecraft that has defined his post‑B.A.P career.

Discover the story of Korea’s distinctive and vibrant arts – from 300 BC to the present day.

Featuring outstanding examples of sculpture, painting and decorative arts over two millennia – up to the present day – the exhibition presents the most comprehensive chronological survey of Korean visual and material culture seen in Europe for over 40 years.

This major exhibition draws almost exclusively from the 23,000 works bequeathed in 2021 by the late Samsung Group Chairman Lee Kun-Hee to the National Museum of Korea (NMK) and the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Korea (MMCA). Spanning more than 2,000 years of Korean art and culture, the collection includes many objects designated as National Treasures or Treasures and is renowned for its exceptionally high quality.

From ancient gold body ornaments and Buddhist icons to 12th- and 13th-century celadon-glazed stoneware, evocative ink landscapes and contemporary works responding to the turbulence of the 20th century, the objects on display tell a panoramic story of the history of Korea. Originally created for settings including royal tombs and palaces, Buddhist temples, scholars’ studios, private homes and modern art spaces, most of the objects have never been seen in the UK before.

More than 70 years ago, young men travelled thousands of miles from home to defend the freedom of a country they had never seen before.

Today, because of their courage and sacrifice, generations of Koreans live in peace and freedom.

On 27 June, the Korean Veterans Association UK gathers not only to remember their service, but to say one simple thing:

Thank you.

Re-Seed Asia brings together fashion, education, and cultural exchange to connect emerging creatives across Asia.

Re-Seed Asia: Fashion, Culture & Creative Diplomacy Summit is an exhibition-led international cultural exchange programme hosted by University of the Arts London at London College of Fashion. This exhibition brings together emerging student creatives from South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and the UK to explore themes of identity, heritage, sustainability, innovation, and contemporary fashion practice through a shared platform of creative dialogue.

The programme is a collaborative initiative between:

• University of the Arts London
• Bunka Gakuen University
• Fu Jen Catholic University

The exhibition aims to strengthen creative diplomacy between East Asia and the UK by bringing together students, diplomats, policymakers, fashion leaders, buyers, media professionals, academics, and cultural organisations.

The exhibition is part of the wider Re-Seed Asia programme:

• 23 June Exhibition Opening & Creative Diplomacy Reception
• 24 June Hands-on Cultural Workshops
• 25 June Industry & Academic Panel Discussions

Attend all three days to experience emerging East Asian creativity through exhibition, making, and dialogue.

23 June: Exhibition Opening & Creative Diplomacy Reception

4:30pm – 9pm

Taking place on the opening day of Paris Fashion Week, this event offers London-based fashion professionals a unique opportunity to engage with future global talent and cultural leaders without leaving the city.

Attendees can expect:

• Exclusive access to an exhibition showcasing emerging East Asian fashion and creative talent
• Networking opportunities with international fashion industry leaders
• Cultural exchange with visiting university delegations
• Diplomatic engagement with ambassadors and policymakers
• Industry insights from media executives and global fashion brands
• Private leadership networking opportunities

Special invited guests include representatives from: UAL leadership team | South Korean Embassy | Japanese Embassy | V&A East | QS Leadership | Condé Nast including Vogue | Burberry | Jimmy Choo | Kenzo | UKFT | British Queer Museum | Forbes | BBC leadership | Advance HE | Jogumanstudio | A2Z Fashion Magazine | 1Percentclub Luxury Magazine

24 June: Hands-on Cultural Workshops

Session 1: Korean Textile Jogakbo Coaster Workshop
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, hosted by University of the Arts London

This hands‑on workshop explores traditional Korean textile techniques, focusing on Jogakbo, a historic patchwork method originally developed as a way to reuse leftover fabric pieces. Participants will learn how Jogakbo transforms fabric remnants into new, meaningful textiles that reflect sustainability, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage.

In this workshop, participants will:

• Explore traditional Korean textile practices through the Jogakbo technique
• Learn about the cultural and sustainable principles behind fabric reuse
• Create a handmade Jogakbo‑inspired textile coaster to take home

Session 2: Sashiko Japanese Embroidery Workshop
13:30 PM – 3:30 PM, hosted by Bunka Gakuen University

Discover the timeless art of Sashiko, a traditional Japanese embroidery technique rooted in the philosophy of Mottainai—the idea of reducing waste and valuing materials. Participants will:

• Learn the history behind Sashiko
• Explore traditional pattern symbolism
• Practice embroidery techniques
• Learn visible mending skills for garment repair

Materials provided by Daruma Thread. This workshop series is ideal for:

• UAL students and academics
• Fashion professionals
• Exhibition visitors

No prior experience is required.

Session 3: Taiwanese Upcycled Tea Sachet Workshop
3:30 PM – 5:30 PM, hosted by Fu Jen Catholic University

Discover innovative circular design practices by transforming used tea sachets into creative objects while learning about sustainability through Taiwan’s tea culture. Participants will:

• Learn about circular fashion practices
• Explore sustainable material innovation
• Transform tea waste into creative design pieces
• Experiment with upcycling methods

25 June Industry & Academic Panel Discussions

1:00pm onwards

Project funded by

London College of Fashion | The Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation | South Korean Overseas Agency | Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea | Joguman Studio | Tokyo Bunka Gakuen University | Fu Jen Catholic University

The ArtEN Annual Exhibition is a cultural event presenting exceptional international artists working in the UK today.

The 2026 iteration, Degrees of Contact, brings fifteen distinct practitioners into a shared space. This year, the focus is on contact, observing how these practices translate specific cultural origins and mythological frameworks, into a shared contemporary visual language, moving through works driven by physical compounds and architectural memory, to those navigating frictions in complex geographies.

2026 Selected Artists

Albano Hernández | Anna Pakosz | Beto Fame | chema | Daniel Bălănescu | Dávid Matécsa | Euphrosyne Andrews | Filip Lav | Gusty Ferro | Joonhong Min | Marta Soul | Matilde Roque | Mircea Teleagă | Woo Jin Joo | Yewon Lee

Artworks are available to purchase.

The Korea University and SOAS Joint Colloquium on Traditional Korean Studies is a full-day scholarly exchange bringing together researchers from Korea University’s Institute for Global Humanities Research and Collaboration and the SOAS Centre of Korean Studies.

The programme features two keynote lectures and two research sessions covering a broad range of topics, including Korean reception of the Shijing, Joseon court politics and gender history, premodern governance and material culture, and Korea’s encounters with Western science and religion in the modern period. The event aims to foster sustained academic collaboration between emerging and established scholars at both institutions.

Programme

Registration

This event is free to attend, but registration is required. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Image credit: Korea University

The Korean Cultural Centre UK (KCCUK), in collaboration with Ilmin Museum of Art, is delighted to present Korean Traditional Painting in Alter-age: Pure and Hybrid, an exhibition centring on literati painting as a key strand of Korean traditional art, juxtaposing works from the collections of Ilmin Museum of Art and the Ilmin Cultural Foundation with contemporary Korean painting.

Bringing works from collections of the Ilmin Museum of Art and the Ilmin Cultural Foundation into dialogue with four contemporary painters, this exhibition spans masterpieces from the late Joseon Dynasty through the twentieth century alongside works by younger artists.

Through this encounter, historical works and contemporary reinterpretations reflect one another, opening renewed questions around the meaning, continuity, and identity of Hangukhwa (Korean painting).

KCCUK will also host a programme of public events to accompany the exhibition, opening with a private view on Thursday 25 June 2026. Across the summer, events will include a talk on the continuity and transformation of Korean painting, a workshop for secondary school students, and a curator-led exhibition tour.

Participating Artists:

Jean Song, Choe Sooryeon, Choi Haeri, Hwang Kyumin, Jeong Seon, Yi Gwangsa, Kang Sehwang, Kim Jeonghui, Jang Seungeop, An Jungsik, Lee Sangbeom, No Soohyeon, Pak Nosoo

Tchaikovsky never held back. He asked for his Fifth Symphony to be performed con desiderio e passione – ‘with desire and passion’ – and when guest conductor Ben Glassberg joins the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at Cadogan Hall, we can promise exactly that. With its heartfelt melodies and blazing colours, we love playing Tchaikovsky’s Fifth as much as you love hearing it, and there’s no more stirring way to finish a season packed with music at its most uninhibited. But that’s not all: the evening opens with a delightful new miniature from Composer-in-Association Joe Hisaishi (Spirited Away). And Clara-Jumi Kang brings all her world-class insight to Britten’s powerful Violin Concerto, written on the eve of World War II. Strong emotions, stunningly played.

Repertoire
Hisaishi Encounter for String Orchestra
Britten Violin Concerto
Tchaikovsky Symphony No.5

Features
Ben Glassberg Conductor
Clara-Jumi Kang Violin
Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

The Centre for Korean Studies (CKS), SOAS University of London, in collaboration with INALCO, warmly invites students, scholars, and members of the public to attend the first SOAS–INALCO Joint Postgraduate Conference, Reframing Contemporary Korea: Language, Culture, and Society, to be held online on Friday, 5 June 2026.

This one-day postgraduate conference aims to provide a supportive and interdisciplinary space for postgraduate researchers to share and discuss their work on contemporary Korea through the lenses of language, culture, and society. Bringing together presenters from SOAS, INALCO, UCL Institute of Education, and EHESS, the conference encourages scholarly exchange and dialogue across a range of topics in Korean Studies.

The 2026 programme features presentations on Korean literature and publishing, feminism and science fiction, Korean linguistics and language acquisition, modern Korean writing styles, medical history, gender, ageing, and contemporary Korean society.

The conference reflects a shared commitment between SOAS and INALCO to supporting postgraduate research development and fostering academic exchange and collaboration in Korean Studies among early-career scholars in Europe.

We warmly welcome all those interested in Korean Studies to join us for a day of interdisciplinary discussion and scholarly exchange.

Join the conference:

Time: Jun 5, 2026 09:30 AM London
Join Zoom Meeting
https://soas-ac-uk.zoom.us/j/99445985259?pwd=TyvuNM4PfwsHU7Tgud6EnjPYKtD84O.1
Meeting ID: 994 4598 5259
Passcode: ds3NRWiPja

Conference programme

Please note that the times displayed are in BST (UK summer time). CEST (French summer time) is one hour ahead.