By Diplomacy Journal Kayla Lee |  On the occasion of the 77th Republic Day of India, Ambassador Gourangalal DAS hosted a reception on January 26, 2026, at Sebitseom, the cluster of small man-made islands beside Seoul’s Banpo-daegyo Bridge. The event was graced by the guest of honor, H.E. Deputy Minister for Public Diplomacy, Mr. Lim Sang-woo, from Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The celebration drew approximately 500 distinguished guests, including members of the National Assembly, various diplomatic missions, business leaders, and academia. Cultural figures and representatives from the Indian community in Korea also attended to reaffirm the strong friendship between India and Korea.

The Brillante Children’s Choir moved hearts with stirring renditions of both the Indian and Korean national anthems. The Korean-based South Asian dance group “Raas,” dressed in colorful traditional Indian costumes, amazed the audience with a vibrant Maharashtrian Lavani folk dance.

“Threads of Heritage,” an exhibition showcasing the stunning artistry and depth of India’s textile heritage, was held at the venue and drew the attention of a large number of guests. Spanning thousands of years of fabric design, it highlighted the cultural significance and history of Indian textiles.

In particular, it introduced the role played by Khadi—traditional handwoven cotton fabric—in India's struggle for independence from British colonial rule, as well as the status and importance of Indian textiles in modern fashion and global trade.

A postcard collection within the exhibition depicted unique cultural identities largely through traditional wedding attire—splendid bridal and groom costumes—that symbolized the varying rituals, heritage, and customs that exist throughout India.

Set between the reflections of Seoul’s high-rises in the Han River and the night sky, this event served both to commemorate India's Republic Day and to deepen cultural exchange between the two Asian nations, whose links date back to vast overland and maritime exchanges made in the ancient world.

In bright illuminated bands of orange, white, and green, the Indian tricolor lit up Sebitseom brilliantly and spread out over the Han River.

An Indian Embassy official stated, "We hope this event will further deepen the friendship between India and Korea and enhance cultural understanding between the peoples of both nations."