General Guidance for K-Culture Studies

Today, we will delve into the realm of K-dramas and investigate their role in propelling the globalization of Korean popular culture.

In recent years, K-dramas have gained popularity beyond Asia, particularly in the United States and Europe. Shows like ‘Kingdom,’ ‘Vincenzo’ and ‘Squid Game’ have gained a massive following and are believed to have reshaped the viewing experience of Korean content worldwide.

We will scrutinize the underlying factors that enable K-dramas to achieve mainstream prominence, notwithstanding the presence of linguistic barriers. Our analysis will encompass the historical and cultural context of Korean drama consumption, as well as the undeniable impact of streaming services like Netflix on K-dramas.

To facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the genre, we will explore its distinctive features and elements, and provide you with a curated list of articles and a K-drama glossary to enhance your familiarity with this captivating world.

By the end of this session, you’ll have a better understanding of:

1. The definition and elements of K-dramas
2. How Korean dramas have influenced popular culture on a global scale
3. The role of streaming services in the rise of K-dramas worldwide

After this lesson, you’ll be able to:

1. Explain what K-dramas are
2. Understand how K-dramas have become mainstream pop culture
3. Examine the consumption of K-dramas by global viewers through streaming services like Netflix