Emergence of the Korean popular culture in the world

Abstract

South Korea has long been influenced culturally by several countries such as China, Japan and the United States. However, in about 20 years, the country has become a powerhouse of popular culture especially in Asia. It is now one of the most influential in the world and gain popularity in Europe and Americas. At the same time, the entertainment industry of the nation has also emerged. Referred as Hallyu in Korean, the Korean Wave concerns mainly music, movies and television serial dramas. It first began with the export of soap operas. Recently, the movement has been going faster and stronger thanks to the digital media. Lead by the idol groups, the Korean popular music is at the center of the phenomenon.

The popularity of this phenomenon benefits to the nation as people has started to get interest in the country. It also leads to some important impacts, such as social and economic impacts. Different factors lied behind the success of the Hallyu, and the cultural content. In addition, many key reasons entice people in this popular culture.