Kazakhstan’s Cultural Boom in 2025: From Netflix to Global Stages
Kazakhstan saw a vibrant year in culture and entertainment in 2025. Major international stars performed in its cities, while local films and artists gained global recognition. The country also marked historical milestones and expanded its cultural institutions.
The year began with Kazakhstan’s film critics achieving greater prominence. In January, the Kazakhstan Association of Film Critics joined FIPRESCI, the international federation of film critics. Later, the Kazakh-Spanish historical drama La Tregua premiered domestically and became the first Kazakh production confirmed for Netflix’s global platform.
In April, the country celebrated its first National Book Day, launched by a presidential initiative to encourage reading and support libraries. The event coincided with the 800th anniversary of the Jochi Ulus, which inspired new film, publishing, and museum projects throughout the year. By summer, international stars drew massive crowds. Jennifer Lopez performed in Almaty and Astana in August, attracting tens of thousands of fans and generating an estimated $21 million in economic activity. Meanwhile, Kazakh tenor Dimash Qudaibergen took part in Budapest’s Virtuosos project, sharing the stage with opera legends and a renowned cellist. In September, the Backstreet Boys returned to Kazakhstan with concerts in Almaty and Astana, drawing over 30,000 attendees. That same month, the Almaty Museum of Arts opened as the nation’s first contemporary art museum built to international standards. Kazakh cinema also made strides. Askhat Kuchinchirekov’s Bauyryna salu was selected as the country’s official entry for Best International Feature Film at the 97th Academy Awards. Additionally, Kazakhstan was chosen as a filming location for the fourth Armor of God film, with Kazakh director Robert Kun leading action choreography. The year closed with Dimash Qudaibergen’s appointment as a Global Goodwill Ambassador for the UN’s International Organization for Migration (IOM) on December 8, during the annual council session in Geneva.
Kazakhstan’s cultural sector thrived in 2025, blending international collaborations with local achievements. From blockbuster concerts and film premieres to museum openings and UN recognition, the year reinforced the country’s growing influence in global arts and entertainment.
