12018-12-07T18:02:00-08:00Tyler Quan1810a1b5fabcf8429d96f84760463ad4ea8ab3b4324181plain2018-12-07T18:02:00-08:00Tyler Quan1810a1b5fabcf8429d96f84760463ad4ea8ab3b4When reading “Catching up to hallyu?” I was very surprised by the global affect the Korean wave had on the world. Compared to other entertainment industries around the world, the Korean wave had one of the biggest and lasting impacts. I feel that the K-Wave was a more modernized version of Japan’s Japan-mania. Before the K-Wave, Japan was one of the leading forces in entertainment from Asia. Their work of Anime and fighting videogames helped boost their popularity. However, one factor that I feel affected Japan in the long run, was the internalization of their goods. Most of these products were domesticated in Japan. Getting these products were very difficult for people who did not live in Japan. However, with Korea, they aimed to export their goods. The use of the internet, and social media allowed for everyone around the globe to watch their work. Prime examples would be Psy and BTS. If it weren’t for YouTube, I think Psy would not have gained the global popularity he has today. His famous video Gangnam Style became one of the most watched YouTube videos in history. People in the US including President Obama, and Snoop Dog all recognized and praised his work. BTS, is one of the largest K-pop boy bands in the world. The secret weapon they used to gain global sensation was social media. Their constant activity on social media, and strategic marketing strategy helped them win two back to back Billboard music awards beating out the heavy favorite Justin Bieber. The Korean Wave has allowed for Korea to become a global Soft Power. Instead of having strong militaristic and political influence in the world, Korea has used popular culture including, music, TV shows and movies to gain world power.