The Korean Wave within American Pop Culture

Abstract

In recent years of American popular culture, K-Pop and other South Korean popular trends have rapidly and successfully made appearances into American society. K-Pop artists are no strangers to American music streaming platforms, social media, and on trendy television shows, as well as numerous ceremonies and awards events. There are many aspects of the South Korean wave including K-fashion, beauty, K-drama, and films that are tightly connected to K-Pop. K-Pop became popular especially in the COVID-19 pandemic time period due to the overall positive energy and happy vibes the music and the whole culture gives off to people alongside many other factors contributing to the pop culture here. In this research paper, the argument I raise is that I believe K-Pop and other South Korean art forms have influenced the American popular culture. Among the people I have interviewed in my unscientific interview research, they have also shown that it has changed their lifestyle either menatlly or physically with the impact of K-Pop along with other art forms. These impacts are changes for the better, allowing people take different perspectives and the ability to appreciate more cultural differences. My studies help more people to realize the good that K-Pop and other foriegn cultures can bring to America, acting as the modern day of the Silk Road.