HYBE's Mumbai office plan sparks BTS concert hopes in India: What it could mean for Desi K-pop culture
Indian K-pop fans are in a frenzy following reports that HYBE, the powerhouse behind global acts like BTS, TXT, Seventeen, and Le Sserafim, is planning to set up an office in India. As part of its ongoing global expansion, reports suggest that the K-pop juggernaut has zeroed in on Mumbai as its next international hub.
With the BTS reunion coming up in June after all the members complete their military service, and talk of a world tour in 2026, Indian K-pop fans are getting hopeful. Amid reports of HYBE eyeing India, many Indian fans are now wondering if BTS could finally perform in the country. But beyond a BTS concert, let's explore what HYBE's Mumbai office could mean for Desi K-pop culture.
HYBE plans Mumbai office: Report
On May 9 (KST), the Yonhap agency reported that Bang Si Hyuk-led HYBE is working on plans to open a new office in Mumbai, India, citing sources from the finance and investment sector. This would make HYBE the first Korean entertainment company to directly enter the Indian market.
The report stated that India is seen as a market with huge growth potential, with a population of over 1.4 billion and an average age of 28.2, as of last year. Along with its young demographic, India's widespread English proficiency also makes it attractive for global entertainment companies.
According to PwC Consulting, India's entertainment and media market is set to grow from ₹2.45 trillion (approx. 40 trillion KRW) in 2023 to ₹3.45 trillion (approx. 56 trillion KRW) by 2028, with an annual growth rate of 8.3%. HYBE is reportedly aiming to tap into this growing opportunity.
When the news agency reached out to a HYBE official, they stated the company regularly does market research in different countries, but setting up an office in India is not something that's been firmly decided yet.
What HYBE's India plans could mean for Desi K-pop fans
While HYBE hasn't confirmed a Mumbai office yet, it's clear the company sees potential in India. Over the last few years, India's entertainment space has grown, with more large-scale concerts and global events—something that fits perfectly with K-pop's performance-heavy style.
Events like Coldplay's concert earlier this year proved that India not only has the audience but also the infrastructure to host massive international shows. Now that HYBE is exploring the Indian market, fans are hopeful this could lead to their favourite idols finally performing live here. But more than just concerts, a HYBE office in Mumbai could open up bigger possibilities.
A boost for band culture in India
One major shift could be the return of band culture in India. HYBE America recently launched KATSEYE, a five-member girl group, and their debut single GNARLY, is already making waves. If something similar happens in India, it could reshape the music scene.
While Indian bands like The Local Train, Indian Ocean, and Agnee have had a loyal fan base, they've largely remained outside the mainstream. With HYBE's influence and resources, there's a chance we could see more Indian bands rise to prominence and reach a wider audience.
Cross-cultural collaborations on the horizon
Indian artists have collaborated globally before, but when it comes to K-pop, there haven't been many high-profile partnerships except for recent Diljit Dosanjh's collab with Jackson Wang. This is surprising, considering India is one of the biggest markets for K-pop.
Recently, singer Armaan Malik tweeted his excitement about receiving a signed album from TXT and thanked HYBE. That one post sparked a wave of speculation about a potential collaboration, showing just how eager fans are for Indian-Korean artist pair-ups and how much potential lies in such crossover moments.
thank you for this signed @TXT_bighit album, @HYBEOFFICIALtwt fam! can't wait to explore their music 🫰🏻 pic.twitter.com/NNHUxZlYGQ
Will BTS hold a concert in India?
Now that HYBE is finally taking an interest in the Indian market, a BTS concert here doesn't seem like an impossible dream anymore. With the group's reunion just around the corner and a world tour expected next year, Indian fans are holding on to hope. If things align, Desi ARMYS might just get the surprise they've been waiting for.
For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here.
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