By Honorary Reporter Shalini Ghosh from India

The Korean-themed Sun and Moon Korean Cafe in Mumbai, India, on Dec. 22 held the event "TaeJin Day" to celebrate the December birthdays of BTS members Jin (born Kim Seok-jin) and V (Kim Tae-hyung).

Sun and Moon Cafe in Mumbai, India, is a Korean-themed facility. (Shalini Ghosh & Sun & Moon staff) 

The event began at 12:30 p.m. with over 20 visitors. After a brief ice-breaking session, the hosts commenced the festivities with a quiz on Jin and V, offering the winners photo cards. Next were a wristband-making session, a round of the Korean game cham, cham, cham and a cake-cutting ceremony. 

BTS fans gather at the cafe for the event, with a poster of the occasion displayed. (Shalini Ghosh)

During the event, I interviewed cafe manager Roshani Palka, who hosted the event. 

What was the idea behind the cafe and how frequently does it host K-pop events?

We opened our cafe on Sept. 1, 2024, by celebrating BTS member Jungkook's birthday that day. Our intent was to create a more immersive space for K-pop and K-culture fans in Mumbai, serving them authentic Korean food and beverages while indulging their interest in Korean entertainment. 

Since opening, we've hosted many events, and most of our BTS-themed activities are based on what each member likes, adding a personal and authentic touch to every event.

Are your bestselling foods linked with K-dramas and K-pop?

Yes. Many of our bestselling items are frequently featured in K-dramas or K-pop videos like barbeque, ttoekbokki (spicy rice cake), corn dogs, gimbap (seeweed rice rolls) and samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly). BTS fans know that Jungkook enjoys corn dogs and RM samgyeopsal, so they often order these items here. Similarly, hotpot and barbeque meals often seen in K-dramas are a hit among groups. 

Sun and Moon Cafe (from left to right) has a merchandise store, BTS-themed decor and food. (Shalini Ghosh and Sun & Moon staff)

The event ended at 3 p.m., and after a hearty lunch of a Korean boxed lunch, participants sang BTS songs via karaoke. The day was filled with laughter, energy and heartfelt messages from the group's fans.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.