top of page

Entertainment: BTS and beyond: K-pop remains top global symbol of South Korean culture, survey shows

Why is this Topic Trending?

  • Global Influence: K-pop maintains its position as a leading cultural export from South Korea, impacting global entertainment, fashion, and more.

  • Increasing Consumption: There's an uptick in the amount of time and money international consumers are spending on K-pop and related content.

  • Cultural Integration: K-pop is influencing lifestyles and consumer habits around the world, leading to its discussion in cultural and economic contexts.

Overview The 2025 Global Hallyu Survey reveals that K-pop remains the most recognized aspect of South Korean culture globally, consistently attracting and engaging international fans. Despite challenges, the industry shows robust economic growth and significant influence on global consumer behaviors.

Detailed Findings

  • Top Cultural Symbol: 17.8% of respondents first associate South Korea with K-pop.

  • Leading Acts: BTS and Blackpink remain dominant, driving fan engagement.

  • Economic Impact: Increased spending on Korean products, with a notable rise in the consumption of Korean language courses, fashion, and cosmetics.

  • Mixed Sentiments: While popularity grows, there is rising concern over commercialism and cultural displacement.

Key Takeaway K-pop's dynamic evolution continues to captivate a global audience, making it a powerful tool for cultural influence and economic activity.

Main Trend The Persistent Ascendancy of K-pop

Description of the Trend: 'Cultural Wave Effect' The 'Cultural Wave Effect' refers to the pervasive and expanding influence of K-pop as a cornerstone of South Korean cultural exports, shaping global entertainment and consumer habits.

Consumer Motivation

  • Cultural Curiosity: Fascination with the intricacies of Korean culture expressed through music, dance, and aesthetics.

  • Social Connectivity: Engaging with a global fan community that shares similar interests.

What is Driving the Trend?

  • Digital Media Proliferation: Social media and streaming platforms significantly enhance the accessibility and virality of K-pop.

  • Innovative Music Production: High-quality music videos, catchy tunes, and visually appealing performances.

Motivation Beyond the Trend

  • Cultural Diplomacy: K-pop serves as a soft power tool, promoting a positive image of South Korea globally.

Description of Consumers the Article Refers To

  • Age: Primarily 15 to 59 years old.

  • Gender: Diverse, with no specific gender predominance.

  • Income: Varied income levels, generally inclusive of both lower and higher economic brackets.

  • Lifestyle: Digitally connected, trend-sensitive, and culturally inquisitive.

Conclusions K-pop’s resilience as a cultural force is fortified by its adaptability and the continuous innovation within its industry.

Implications for Brands

  • Brand Collaborations: Opportunities for partnerships with K-pop stars to tap into their vast fan bases.

  • Cultural Relevance: Brands need to be culturally informed and sensitive to resonate with the global market.

Implications for Society

  • Cultural Exchange: Promotes greater understanding and appreciation of different cultures.

  • Youth Engagement: Acts as a catalyst for young people to explore artistic and cultural pursuits.

Implications for Consumers

  • Enhanced Cultural Exposure: Consumers gain broader perspectives on global cultures.

  • Community Participation: Becoming part of a worldwide community that shares similar interests.

Implication for Future

  • Sustained Growth: Continued expansion of K-pop's influence on global entertainment and culture.

Consumer Trend: 'Global Fandom Culture' The deepening engagement of international audiences with K-pop, manifesting in dedicated fan activities, merchandise collection, and concert attendance.

Consumer Sub Trend: 'Virtual Fan Engagement' Increased use of online platforms for fan meetings, virtual concerts, and interactive sessions with K-pop stars.

Big Social Trend: 'Cross-Cultural Integration' The blending of Korean cultural elements with local customs around the world, leading to innovative cultural hybrids.

Worldwide Social Trend: 'Digital Diaspora' The spread of cultural phenomena like K-pop through digital channels, creating communities and conversations across borders.

Social Drive: 'Technological Empowerment' The role of technology in facilitating the global reach and consumption of K-pop.

Learnings for Brands to Use in 2025

  • Leverage Digital Tools: Emphasize social media for marketing and fan engagement.

  • Focus on Authenticity: Ensure genuine and respectful representation of cultural elements.

Strategy Recommendations for Brands to Follow in 2025

  • Inclusive Marketing: Develop campaigns that acknowledge and celebrate cultural diversity.

  • Interactive Experiences: Create immersive and engaging consumer experiences through AR, VR, and more.

Final Sentence The 'Cultural Wave Effect' encapsulates the sweeping global influence of K-pop, reshaping entertainment and consumer trends worldwide.

What Brands & Companies Should Do in 2025 to Benefit from the Trend and How to Do It

  • Cultural Partnerships: Collaborate with K-pop agencies to co-create content that resonates with global audiences.

  • Innovative Consumer Products: Design products that reflect K-pop aesthetics and values.

Final Note

  • Core Trend: 'Cultural Wave Effect' - The enduring impact of K-pop on global cultural trends and consumer behavior.

  • Core Strategy: 'Engage and Connect' - Strategies that foster deep, meaningful connections with global audiences through cultural relevance.

  • Core Industry Trend: 'Entertainment Globalization' - The ongoing expansion of entertainment industries into new global markets.

  • Core Consumer Motivation: 'Cultural Exploration' - The consumer's desire to explore and engage with foreign cultures through media.

  • Final Conclusion K-pop remains a vital cultural and economic vector, with its influence set to grow as it continues to engage and inspire global audiences.

  • Core Trend Detailed: 'Cultural Wave Effect' The comprehensive impact of K-pop’s global reach, driving not just entertainment, but also economic and social interactions across continents.

Comments


bottom of page