hallyu

Korean culture

Also known as: Korean wave

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Last updated

July 19, 2026

Quick Summary

Hallyu, or the "Korean Wave," refers to the global popularity of South Korean culture. This phenomenon is primarily driven by Korean dramas and K-pop music. Korean dramas, originating in the 1950s, are known for their compelling narratives and character development, becoming a significant cultural export. K-pop, emerging in the early 1990s, is characterized by upbeat music and synchronized choreography, with groups like BTS and Blackpink achieving international stardom. Hallyu also encompasses Korean films, television shows like Squid Game, and even cuisine, significantly boosting South Korea's tourism and cultural influence worldwide.12

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Bae Yong-Jun
The trend became known as hallyu, or “Korean Wave,” and it seemed to peak with the KBS drama series Gyeoul yeonga (2002; Winter Sonata). Though the story was a typical tale of star-crossed lovers, the performances of Bae and costar Choi Ji-Woo captivated the country. The Japanese network Nippon Hoso…
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The trend became known as hallyu, or “Korean Wave,” and it seemed to peak with the KBS drama series Gyeoul yeonga (2002; Winter Sonata). Though the story was a typical tale of star-crossed lovers, the performances of Bae and costar Choi Ji-Woo captivated the country. The Japanese network Nippon Hoso…
Read More

South Korea
Media and publishing
This hallyu (“Korean wave”) brought many South Korean actors and popular music figures to international attention. The hallyu was seen as an economic and cultural asset, as it brought revenue and tourists to the South Korean economy as well as increasing the country’s profile abroad. In…
Read More
This hallyu (“Korean wave”) brought many South Korean actors and popular music figures to international attention. The hallyu was seen as an economic and cultural asset, as it brought revenue and tourists to the South Korean economy as well as increasing the country’s profile abroad. In…
Read More