Events in Goa

Cross-Cultural Magic in Goa: Korea’s Ms. Jaewon Kim Performs Vande Mataram


Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Goa experienced a beautiful moment of cross-cultural harmony at the inaugural ceremony of the WAVES Film Bazaar when Korea’s Ms. Jaewon Kim, Member of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea, took the stage to perform a soulful rendition of Vande Mataram. As India celebrates the 150th anniversary of its national song, her gesture resonated deeply with the audience.

The hall rose in an emotional standing ovation as her voice carried sincerity, respect, and warmth, creating a rare moment of cultural connection. The atmosphere shifted from formal celebration to a shared experience of admiration and unity as her performance honoured India’s heritage with genuine gratitude.

Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan praised Ms. Kim for singing the full version of Vande Mataram, acknowledging the effort and respect behind her gesture. The performance beautifully reflected the growing bonds between India and South Korea, showing how music transcends differences and brings cultures together.

Adding to the sense of shared artistry, Ms. Kim also sang a Korean song for the gathering, offering the audience a glimpse into her own culture. With filmmakers, creators, and delegates from around the world present, her performance stood out as a gentle reminder that art flows freely across borders, touching hearts and strengthening friendships in the most unexpected and meaningful ways.

International

South Korea’s HD Hyundai Signs MoU with Cochin Shipyard to Strengthen Maritime Ties


New Delhi, July 3, 2025: In a significant step toward fostering strategic maritime cooperation, South Korea’s HD Hyundai has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with India’s largest shipbuilder, Cochin Shipyard Ltd. (CSL). This strategic partnership aims to promote collaboration in advanced shipbuilding, defence manufacturing, and maritime innovation.

The agreement was signed in the presence of senior officials from both nations and marks a pivotal moment in the expanding Indo-Korean industrial relationship.

The MoU will focus on several key areas:

  • Technology transfer in commercial and defence shipbuilding
  • Joint development of eco-friendly and next-generation vessels
  • Collaboration in global maritime projects
  • Promotion of localised manufacturing under the Make in India initiative

This development aligns with India’s broader push to enhance its blue economy and maritime capabilities. Cochin Shipyard, which has emerged as a powerhouse in defence shipbuilding and maintenance, will benefit from HD Hyundai’s global expertise and innovation in marine engineering.

“This partnership is not just about ships. It’s about building capabilities, sharing knowledge, and steering the future of maritime technology together,” said a Cochin Shipyard spokesperson.

Strategic Significance

The MoU is also expected to pave the way for joint participation in global tenders, co-development of dual-use technologies, and potentially new facilities or expansion in India and South Korea.

HD Hyundai, formerly known as Hyundai Heavy Industries, is a global leader in shipbuilding and maritime technology. The company has a longstanding reputation for innovation in LNG carriers, naval ships, and eco-friendly marine solutions.

The Indo-Korean partnership comes at a time when both countries are looking to expand strategic cooperation in key sectors such as defence, blue economy, renewable energy, and industrial manufacturing.

As global shipping lanes evolve and defence requirements grow, this MoU could shape the future of maritime collaboration between two of Asia’s leading industrial powers.