Xi Jinping Signals Positive Green Light for K-Pop Concerts in China, Hinting at 'Hallyu Ban' Easing

Chinese President Xi Jinping has sent a strong positive signal regarding the resumption of K-pop concerts in China, fueling peak anticipation for the lifting of the years-long 'Hallyu Ban' (or 'Hanhanryeong').

During a dinner banquet following the South Korea-China summit on the 1st, Park Jin-young, Chairman of the Committee for Cultural Exchange, proposed a large-scale K-pop concert in Beijing. President Xi reportedly responded enthusiastically, even summoning Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the spot to issue instructions.

This surprise news was shared via Facebook by Kim Young-bae, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea and a key figure in the National Assembly's Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee. He expressed hope, stating, "This might be the moment the door opens for the full-fledged advancement of 'K-culture,' going beyond just lifting the 'Hallyu Ban.'"

The lifting of the 'Hallyu Ban' was indeed a significant agenda item during the summit. Presidential National Security Advisor Wi Sung-lak officially confirmed this in a briefing, stating, "Both leaders discussed the issue of lifting the ban during their closed-door meeting."

He further added, "There was a consensus to foster cultural exchange and cooperation and to make efforts in content collaboration. Coordination can be achieved through future practical communication," indicating that the re-entry of K-culture into the Chinese market is becoming tangible.

Korean netizens reacted with excitement, commenting, "Can we finally see K-pop concerts in China?" and "I have high hopes! I hope to hear good news soon." Many expressed anticipation, saying, "The power of culture is truly amazing."