By Shim Sun-ah
Paris is set to host the highly anticipated **K-Expo France 2026** from Tuesday to Friday, a landmark event celebrating 140 years of diplomatic relations between South Korea and France. This vibrant exposition aims to showcase the rich tapestry of Korean culture, innovation, and industry in the French capital.
Organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in collaboration with several other ministries, the K-Expo initiative, launched in 2022, strategically links Korean cultural content with diverse industries. This unique approach facilitates the **overseas expansion of Korean firms** across sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, and cosmetics, fostering global partnerships and market growth.
Experience Korean Innovation and Culture at Palais des Congres
From Tuesday to Thursday, the prestigious **Palais des Congres** will transform into a hub of Korean excellence. Major companies and institutions will present an array of cutting-edge **Korean consumer products**, alongside groundbreaking advancements in **artificial intelligence (AI)** and immersive content technologies, according to the ministry.
Global streaming giant Netflix will feature a dedicated pavilion, partnering with companies and institutions that have leveraged intellectual property from its hugely popular **Korean original series**. Visitors can explore merchandise and promotions inspired by global hits like “KPop Demon Hunters,” “Squid Game,” and “Culinary Class Wars,” highlighting the immense impact of **Korean content** worldwide.
The Korea Tourism Organization invites attendees to discover the beauty of **Korean tourism**. Recreating iconic elements such as Seoul’s vibrant subway spaces and serene hiking trails, the pavilion will promote Korea’s captivating four seasons. A special collaboration with Korean Air will offer an immersive aircraft seat experience zone.
Food enthusiasts will delight in the convenience store-style **K-food experience zone**. Here, visitors can sample unique items like “Han River instant noodles” – ramen cooked outdoors with automated machines, a beloved local experience – and innovative **vegan kimchi**. Further exhibition areas will shine a spotlight on delicious Korean seafood products, renowned cosmetics, captivating books, and the popular Nongshim food brands.
Innovation continues with CJ ENM and eleven tech firms participating in an **AI-based film and animation experience zone**. Exhibitions will also feature augmented reality book content and stunning digital displays showcasing unique collaborations between prestigious French luxury fashion houses, including Louis Vuitton, and exquisite **Korean high-end craft brands**, bridging tradition with modern luxury.
Engaging Side Events and Business Matchmaking
Thursday and Friday will be packed with a diverse range of **side events**. Highlights include a captivating cooking show focused on **Korean seafood**, a special talk program by acclaimed actor Ryu Soo-young on the intricacies of **Korean cuisine**, and practical Korean-style skin care demonstrations. Attendees can also enjoy insightful lectures by Korean authors and energetic **K-pop dance events**. For industry professionals, a dedicated business matchmaking program will connect 46 companies across the content and beauty sectors, fostering valuable partnerships.
Star-Studded K-Pop Concert: A Highlight of the Anniversary
A major highlight marking the 140th anniversary of diplomatic ties will be a sensational **K-pop concert** on Wednesday. The star-studded lineup promises unforgettable performances from beloved artists such as Taemin, Monsta X, Hearts2Hearts, NCT Wish, Stella Jang, and 82Major. The evening will commence with a commemorative ceremony graced by the culture ministers of both countries, followed by a vibrant celebration of songs cherished in both Korea and France.
Culture, Sports and Tourism Minister Chae Whi-young will attend the expo in Paris, conducting an inspection of the site and engaging in crucial meetings with the French culture minister and leaders of prominent cultural and arts institutions to discuss bilateral cooperation.
Minister Chae expressed his anticipation for the event, stating in a release, “The **K-Expo France 2026** will serve as a profoundly meaningful opportunity to introduce the diverse and dynamic aspects of **Korean culture** to France, a nation that has shared cultural exchanges with Korea for an impressive 140 years.”
