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 the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, this exhibition traces 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 through 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 a 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
Stay in the city, just minutes from the National Museum of Australia, with delicious buffet breakfast to start your day, exhibition entry, reusable shoulder bag and welcome drink included. 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.
Discover Hallyu! The Korean Wave, close to Canberra’s dining districts and galleries, allowing more time to explore and soak in the city vibe and experience more from your cultural weekend.
Novotel Canberra isn’t just a place to sleep, it’s your home base for a relaxing getaway.
