South Koreans Embrace India as a Second Home
India has long captivated a passionate South Korean fanbase, with phenomena like BTS and K-dramas weaving into the cultural fabric. Yet, this admiration is mutual, blossoming into a heartfelt romance where both nations have fallen for each other's charms. As of 2026, approximately 17,000 South Koreans call India home, fostering vibrant Little Koreas in key urban centers such as Chennai, Delhi, and Pune.
Jung Ae Um: A Social Media Influencer's Indian Journey
Among the over 3,000 South Koreans residing in Chennai is Jung Ae Um, a content creator and mother of two who has seamlessly integrated into Indian life. She runs the popular social media account wonny_brothers with her sons, documenting their daily experiences. Initially started to reassure her family of her safety, her posts quickly garnered public interest, prompting her to launch a YouTube channel.
In an interview with CNA Insider, Jung Ae challenged common stereotypes: "Many people think India is a crowded, dangerous, and dirty place. But when I came here, I found as many beautiful and clean spots as in South Korea. People said Indians weren't kind, but I encountered more warm and generous souls than back home."
Cultural Immersion: From Dosa Delights to Saree Surprises
Jung Ae's culinary adventures began with her first taste of dosa, a South Indian specialty absent in South Korea. "The first restaurant I visited in India had dosa. I can't forget the crisp texture and soft taste," she reminisced. Now, her family frequents Geetham in Chennai weekly for cone dosa, a beloved ritual.
Her cultural exploration extends to attire, as she discovered the elegance of sarees during a school festival. "It was so beautiful that I want to buy it again," she expressed, marveling at how a single fabric transforms into a complete outfit.
Mastering Indian Ways: Tamil and Negotiation Skills
Jung Ae has delved deep into local customs, even learning Tamil to haggle for discounts. "I wanted to negotiate prices, but they couldn't fully understand English. So, I asked my friend for the Tamil word for 'discount.' That's how I started learning Tamil little by little," she shared. She enthusiastically celebrates Indian festivals like Diwali and Pongal, donning traditional clothes.
Community and Integration in Little Koreas
While many South Korean husbands work in multinational corporations, their wives actively engage with Indian culture and community life. The Indo-Korean Cultural and Information Centre, established in 2006 in Chennai, bridges these communities, fostering connections. Predominantly Christian, South Koreans often gather at churches for mass, strengthening their social bonds.
With a welcoming environment and genuine affection for India, individuals like Jung Ae Um have found a second homeland, enriching the cultural exchange between these two dynamic nations.
