The National Museum of Australia is preparing to launch a comprehensive exhibition celebrating the global phenomenon of Korean culture. The exhibition, titled 'Hallyu! The Korean Wave,' will run from December 12, 2025, through May 10, 2026, offering Australian audiences an in-depth look at the contemporary Korean cultural movement that has captured worldwide attention.
The exhibition originally debuted at the prestigious Victoria and Albert Museum in London before making its way to Canberra. The comprehensive display will feature more than 200 carefully curated objects that represent various aspects of Korean popular culture. Visitors will have the opportunity to view authentic K-pop stage costumes worn by famous performers, original props from acclaimed Korean films, cutting-edge fashion pieces that showcase Korean design innovation, and interactive displays designed to engage audiences of all ages.
According to exhibition curator Kate Morschel, the 'Hallyu!' exhibition provides visitors with a unique opportunity to experience firsthand the innovation, artistry, and community spirit that have been instrumental in propelling Korean culture onto the global stage. The exhibition aims to demonstrate how Korean creative industries have evolved and gained international recognition through their distinctive approach to entertainment and cultural expression.
The exhibition will take visitors on a journey through the evolution of Korea's creative industries, beginning with the early television dramas that first gained popularity across Asia and continuing through to today's world-renowned music industry, internationally acclaimed cinema, and innovative design sectors. The display will highlight how these various cultural elements have worked together to create the modern Korean Wave phenomenon that continues to influence global trends in entertainment and lifestyle.
Through this extensive exhibition, Australian audiences will gain a deeper appreciation for how Korean culture has managed to transcend geographical and cultural boundaries to inspire and connect people from diverse backgrounds around the world. The exhibition represents a significant cultural exchange opportunity, allowing visitors to understand the creativity and dynamism that characterize contemporary Korean society and its global cultural impact.
