Indian television star and style icon Hina Khan has added another feather to her bucket list—this time, on a global stage. The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) has selected her as the Honorary Ambassador for Korea Tourism in India, a role she will hold from May 2025 through April 2026.
This announcement is more than just a title, and this ambassadorship also marks a heartfelt cultural exchange between India and South Korea, and Hina is right at the center of it. Known for her vibrant personality and strong connection with fans, she’s stepping into a role that’s as much about storytelling as it is about tourism, exploring and promoting Korean culture in India.
“I’ve always been fascinated by Korea—the culture, the food, the fashion, and of course, the K-dramas,” Hina genuinely stated. “To now represent Korea and share. The announcement came during a formal ceremony at Hi KR Ground, at the Korean Tourism Center in Seoul, where KTO (Korean Tourism Organization) officially welcomed Hina, but it didn’t end there. Hina then explored a week-long immersive tour through some of Korea’s most iconic regions— Seoul, Gangwon-do, and Incheon—capturing the essence of Korean life, from the peaceful templesto bustling and busy K-Pop districts and coastal views. She spent an amazing time there, enjoying the culture and views as much as possible. As she strolled through palaces wearing hanbok (Traditional Korean attire for women), cooked traditional Korean dishes, and danced her way through K-Pop studios, she shared snippets with her millions of followers, making her experience feel personal and relatable. Her fans weren’t just watching—they were traveling alongside her.
Andrew JH Kim, Acting Executive VP at KTO, explained the thinking behind this collaboration and stated that “Hina’s authenticity and her connection with young and curious audience in India make her the perfect ambassador. She brings Korea to life in a way that’s engaging and real,” he stated. This partnership is part of KTO’s larger and longer vision to showcase the unique and diverse offerings of South Korea to Indian travelers, especially the new generation that is deeply influenced by the Hallyu wave—the Korean Wave sweeping through India via music, cinema, and fashion.
As Hina takes on this new role, she isn’t just promoting a destination but also bridging and bringing two cultures with grace, curiosity, and a deep respect for the stories waiting to be told. For many people, her journey won’t just be about Korea. It’ll be an invitation to explore, to connect, and to fall in love with travel all over again. Let’s enjoy the journey together and learn facts about Korea. its beauty with my audience is such a meaningful experience for me. It’s not just a trip; it’s a journey of discovery.”
- Reported by Jiya Gupta
Intern at The Korean Academy
Korean News Analysis & Reporting
