The Glocalizing Dynamics of the Korean Wave

The Glocalizing Dynamics of the Korean Wave

This paper newly develops the concept of glocal culture created through the influence of globalization but contains a mixture of global and local contexts, and is in turn transnationally consumed. The paper regards the Korean Wave as an exemplary glocal culture. To demonstrate how the Korean Wave is an exemplary glocal culture, the paper shows global impacts, local socio-cultural characteristics, hybrid features, and transnational consumption of the Korean Wave. In addition, it suggests that the local countries consuming the Korean Wave are now creating other glocal cultures through local re-interpretations of the Korean Wave. Lastly, the paper lists the activists of the fan clubs of the K-POP groups as evidence of cultural communities based on the Korean Wave. The glocalizing dynamics of the Korean Wave can be seen in the process of consumption in foreign countries and in the creation of new pop culture in the countries that consume the Korean Wave. It is an important factor for the creation of transnational cultural communities where people of different countries share cultural identities and tastes based on the Korean Wave, and develop mutual understanding and cooperation.