Aoora gets candid on whether the Indian market is as lucrative as South Korea; says, 'Not only about money'

Aoora whose real name is Park Min-jun started his career in 2009 as a K-Pop idol with Double A. After spending some years with a group, he ventured on his solo career. Since two years, Aoora has been in India performing in various cities, doing collaborations with desi artistes and so on.

How would you describe your artistic journey in India so far?

My journey in India has been very exciting and heartwarming. I came here with curiosity, but I was welcomed with so much love and energy. Performing in front of Indian audiences gives me a sense of connection that is very genuine. Every stage and collaboration here feels like a new learning experience, and it motivates me to keep exploring more of India’s music and culture. I have grown into a better version of myself and everyday is a new learning experience .

Were you surprised seeing the spread of Korean entertainment in India across the length and breadth of the country?

Yes, very much. I knew K-pop had fans in India, but I didn’t realize how deep and wide the love was until I saw it with my own eyes. From big cities to smaller towns, people know the songs, the dances, even the fashion. It’s beautiful to see how Korean entertainment has found a second home here, and I feel proud to represent it in person.

You were formerly part of a K-Pop group. How do your former colleagues react to your career in India?

I am. Sure they will be happy but they all have taken new paths and are busy in their respective lives so we are rarely in touch with each other . But yes we all wish each other the best in our respective lives.

Is the Indian market as financially lucrative as the one in South Korea?

India and South Korea are very different markets. Korea is smaller but very concentrated and organized, so revenue comes quickly. India is huge and diverse, and it takes time to build a base. For me, it’s not only about money — it’s about building long-term relationships with fans here. But yes, I believe India has strong potential for the future if the right platforms and opportunities grow.

There is a general perception in South Korea that India is still an under-developed or developing nation. Before you came to India. What were the perceived notions you had about the place?

Before coming, I also had very basic ideas — Bollywood, spicy food, and that it’s a very busy country. But after staying here, I realized India is so much more — modern cities, creative industries, young people with dreams, and also deep traditions. Of course, there are challenges like in every country, but I feel the energy of growth here is very strong. Also it’s truly an example of Unity in diversity . It truly amazes me .

In India, there is a great importance given to live singing/great vocals. We do not care as much about how it is packaged. Would you say it is harder to build a place in hearts of Indians as a good si

Yes, I think so. In India, audiences can feel the emotion in your voice right away. Fans like to sing along and performances are more focused on singing. Packaging is important in K-pop, but in K-pop also mostly idols sing live and perform. I respect both styles a lot, and try to blend both . But definitely it’s not an easy task to make a place in the heart of audience easily.

What has been your best experience in India so far?

There are so many memorable moments but one of the best was when fans started singing along with me in Mathura where I performed Kisna hai song . Also, the chance to collaborate with Indian musicians has been very special and memorable experience .

When you are in India, what do you miss the most about your home in South Korea?

I miss my family, my friends, and sometimes the simple Korean food I grew up with. But India also feels like a second home now, because the warmth of people here makes me feel less lonely.

Social and cultural values of India and South Korea are very different. Did you get a culture shock when you initially came here?

At first, yes. Everything felt very colorful, loud, and big — from the festivals to the traffic. In Korea, things are more structured and quiet. But over time, I started enjoying these differences. The hospitality of Indian people and their openness made me feel very comfortable, so the culture shock slowly turned into appreciation. In fact I feel I am

More matched to India and my energy matches more with Indian style .