Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto plans to increase the number of K-pop concerts in Indonesia following discussions with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung on 1 April.
The plan was disclosed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Sugiono during a press conference at the Presidential Staff Office in Jakarta on Wednesday, 22 April.
“Yesterday, in a conversation, it was conveyed to me, specifically for K-pop fans, that the President plans to increase the number of concerts for K-pop fans,” Sugiono said, as quoted by CNN Indonesia.
Sugiono stated that the meeting between the two leaders formed part of broader bilateral discussions aimed at strengthening ties between Indonesia and South Korea. He noted that cultural exchange, including music and entertainment, remains an important element of the relationship.
Focus on Broader Strategic Cooperation
Sugiono emphasised that the visit was not limited to the entertainment sector. He said both governments aimed to ensure that cooperation would deliver tangible outcomes for the Indonesian public.
“But of course, once again, this visit is a visit; we want to produce something that will be directly felt by the Indonesian people. Our relationships with various countries around the world,” he said.
In addition to cultural cooperation, the visit also resulted in investment agreements between Indonesia and South Korea. Sugiono did not provide further details on the scope or value of the agreements but confirmed that they form part of a broader diplomatic effort covering multiple sectors.
The discussions reflect ongoing efforts by both countries to deepen economic and strategic engagement, alongside cultural exchange initiatives.
Cultural Exchange and Creative Industry Opportunities
During the visit to Seoul, Prabowo also met Indonesian K-pop artist Nyoman Ayu Carmenita. He posed for a photograph with the artist, making a finger heart gesture.
Carmenita is a member of the South Korean group Hearts2Hearts and is recognised as the first Indonesian to debut under SM Entertainment.
Her debut has drawn attention in Indonesia and is seen as part of growing cultural links between the two countries. Government officials view such developments as potential opportunities to expand collaboration in the creative sector.
The Indonesian government stated that cross-sector cooperation with South Korea is expected to continue, covering diplomatic, economic, and cultural areas. Officials indicated that future initiatives would aim to strengthen bilateral relations while supporting domestic development priorities.
Photo by Biro Kepresidenan Indonesia
