New Delhi, July 25, 2025 – When K-pop calls, Delhi doesn’t whisper — it roars. The capital city turned into a pulsating stage of K-fever at the grand finale of the All India K-pop Contest 2025, marking the 15th year of the nationwide celebration of Korean pop culture in India.
From tear-jerking vocals to foot-stomping choreography, the night was a crescendo of fan chants, blazing lights, and thunderous applause, proving once again that the Hallyu wave in India is not just alive — it’s thriving.
🎤 Riniya Taku: A Rap Victory Years in the Making
In a landmark moment for the contest, Itanagar’s Riniya Taku won the first-ever rap category, introduced this year. Her electrifying rendition of Zerobaseone’s “Backpacker” was a standout performance.
“I’ve been participating since 2017. To finally win an award after all these years feels incredibly fulfilling,” said Riniya. “This victory feels like the perfect closing chapter to my student journey.”
🎶 Shylee Preetam: Seven Years of Hope, One Miraculous Win
The vocal round turned emotional as Hyderabad’s Shylee Preetam delivered a soul-stirring cover of Ailee’s U&I, finally clinching a win after seven years of participating.
“Each year I carried hope in my heart. Winning this feels like the universe aligned in my favor,” Shylee shared, visibly emotional. “It’s more than just a trophy — it’s proof I never gave up.”
🕺 3plus4crew: A Comeback for the Ages
Delhi’s own 3plus4crew made history by becoming the only group to win the national dance title twice, performing a fiery cover of Seventeen’s Super.
“We first won in 2016 and represented India in Korea,” said Nidhin Deo, co-founder. “Winning again is a full-circle moment. Now we aim for Changwon.”
🌟 NOMAD: A Debut to Remember
In a stunning surprise, K-pop boy band NOMAD made their India debut, performing hits like No Pressure and Carnival. Their verdict?
“Indian fans? Best of the best!” they beamed.
🎖️ What’s Next for the Winners?
The winners took home ₹2 lakh in prize money and the coveted opportunity to represent India at the K-pop World Festival in Changwon, South Korea.
“This contest has become a vibrant symbol of Indo-Korean friendship,” said Hwang II Yong, director of the Korean Cultural Centre India. “We hope this bond keeps rising, just like the beats!”
Whether you’re a die-hard stan or new to K-pop, one thing’s clear: India’s Hallyu wave is not a trend — it’s a movement
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