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Thesis:

How K-Pop’s Global Takeover Meets Korean Politics: Theories, Trends, and Tunes

Research Questions:

1. How has K-Pop's global rise influenced cultural perceptions and diplomatic relations internationally?

2. In what ways does K-Pop intersect with the socio-political contexts of North and South Korea? (focusing on media influence and public perception)

3. What theoretical frameworks best explain K-Pop's global influence and its socio-political impact?

4. How does K-Pop's global influence align or diverge from established theories of cultural diplomacy and global cultural influence?

points for the above

evolved into global phenomenon with immense cultural impact - country and regional level

beyond music, impact on fashion, beauty and lifestyle

rise of social media is vital in kpop's international reach

deep fan engagement, global fan communities active promoting idols and groups

Main Themes / Concepts:

Global impact of K-Pop

cultural influence - how does kpop affect global popular culture, trends and public perceptions?

economic impact - economic benefits and growth resulting from K-Pop's international popularity, including tourism and merchandise sales

Sociopolitical contexts

North and South Korean politics - how K-Pop reflects and impacts political sentiments and polities within North and South Korea

National Identity and Soft Power - the role of kpop in shaping and projecting its national identity and its use as a tool for soft power by the Korean government

Cultural Diplomacy

Diplomatic relations - how kpop serves as a form of cultural diplomacy and its role in improving or complicating relations between South Korea and other countries

soft power tool, fosters good will and strengthens bilateral relations

kpop artist and concert used to enhance SK global soft power

kpop example of soft power to gain influence without force

cultural diplomacy through kpop strengthens diplomatic ties and create positive associations with k culture

International perceptions - how kpop influences international views of south korea and its global image

fosters cross cultural understanding by introducing global audiences to korean language, culture and national values

global popularity promotes positive image of SK and has influence over how other countries see it

Theoretical frameworks

cultural hegemony - examining kpop through the lens of cultural hegemony to understand its dominance in global culture

soft power theory - applying joseph nye's concept of soft power to assess how kpop functions as a strategic asset for south korea, shape preferences and gain influence through attraction rather than coercion / force

globalisation theory - understanding how k-pop's global spread exemplifies broader trends in globalisation

cultural diplomacy promoting national culture to foster mutual understanding between countries

These theories help to analyse how kpop influences global audiences and strengthens SK diplomatic efforts

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The importance of kpop on global diplomacy and culture

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The importance of kpop on global diplomacy and culture

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Kpop influence on North and South Korea

North - believe its misleading and doesnt fit with their regime, so they ban it, and are very strict on its consumption as believe its corrupt from the west and dont want it getting into their borders.

South - Culturally expressive, and exchanges cultures with other nations in their music and kpop lifestyle. the opposite of the north that is very controlling, strict and dictating.

how kpop serves as a tool for soft power in diplomatic relations

means to form relationships with other countries without coercion or force, people coming together from different cultures and celebrating music, fashion etc... and influencing trends from the fandom sizes in the millions around the world. brings awareness to big causes, and its a huge advantage to countries involved fro forming relationships / allyships.

cultural diplomacy - exchanging ideas, info, art, language and culture to foster mutual understanding

uses kpop as a tool to enhance global influence and improve diplomatic relations

through cultural diplomacy it projects a positive national image and strengthens political and economic ties with other countries through capitalising on the global popularity of kpop

thesis focuses on kpops role on sociopolitical contexts and cultural diplomacy is a framework to help understand how a nation can use soft power to influence international perceptions peacefully

global influence, elevates SK image as culturally dynamic and positive relaitons in entertainment - supports thesis on kpop intersection with global diplomacy

soft power - leverages kpop to shape how other people view it, favourable for diplomatic negotiations and economic partnerships - aligns with analysis of kpop as a strategic power tool

cultural exchange - cross cultural exchange, mutual understanding, long term diplomatic relations reinforcing importance of cultural diplomacy to thesis

explains how cultural diplomacy is strategically employed through kpop to foster positive international relationships, supports thesis about kpops role in shaping global socio political dynamics

THINGS TO MENTION IN INTRODUCTION

1. Clearly explain how K-Pop influences both North and South Korea's socio-political contexts.

2. Highlight how K-Pop serves as a tool of soft power in diplomatic relations.

3. Introduce the relevance of cultural diplomacy as it relates to your thesis.

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INTRO

main aim - understand kpops influence on north and south koreas socio political contexts to the broadet socio political questions. show how this cultural phenomenon is a tool of soft power and a reflection of national identity

CASE STUDY RELEVANCE

explain how each case study shows a specific element of kpop impact, on diplomacy, culture or international relations. highlight each study contributes to answering how global rise of kpop has influence in both north and south korea

ABSTRACT

briefly outline thesis, diss explores kpop global rise and how it links with north and south korean socio political contexts.

mention case studies, theoretical frameworks of cultural hegemony and soft power and summarise findings and implications for international diplomacy and cultural exchange

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K-Pop's impact on global cultural trends, and perceptions

cultural diplomacy - K-Pop has significantly increased SK's global cultural diplomacy, exerting a positive image and promoting Korean culture around the world.

it explains how k-pop's international popularity serves as a soft power tool for south korea, influencing how people see it, and fostering cultural exchanges between other countries

Discusses how kpop has shaped global music trends in fashion and entertainment, and setting new standards via the creation of cross cultural collaborations

through vibrant and diverse industry, kpop has become a major force in global popular culture, creating new trends and fostering cultural diplomacy with other countries.

CASE STUDIES

Global success of BTS

BTS role in reshaping South Korea's global image, highlighting their influence on international perceptions and diplomatic relations

examines how BTS success has not only influenced global cultural trends but also contributed to South Korea's economy through tourism, merch and global media exposure

exemplifies how kpop can effectively alter international perceptions and enhance south korea's global presence, making it a powerful tool for cultural diplomacy

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cultural

evolved from regional sensation to global phenomenon, with a deep impact on music, fashion and entertainment worldwide. BTS and BLACKPINK international success are crucial in shaping that global reach, influencing artists and entertainment industries in the west

studies highlight how BTS's appearance at international events such as the UN General Assembly amplifies kpop cultural diplomacy role, bridging gaps between SK and the international community through music.

shows kpop's dominance in music and its emerging role in cultural diplomacy through groups like bts and blackpink

trends in music, fashion and entertainment:

kpop influence global fashion trends, fans worldwide emulating style choices of idols.

music - integrating diverse genres like hip hop, edm and r&b transformed pop music landscape creating a unique cultural export

streaming platofrms like spotify and youtube have enabled kpop to overtake global music charts, leading to collabs with western artists and kpop groups

bts and coldplay

blackpink and dua lipa

jennie kim and the weekend/ lily rose depp

kpop sets global trends in fashion and entertainment, blending diverse genres and capturing international markets

economic

kpop global success contributes significantly to SK economy from merch sales to tourism.

Korea Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (KOFICE) estimates that kpop's impact on tourism alone contributes billions of dollars annually

events like KCON, global tours, and fan merch sales are significant economic drivers, pushing kpop's contribution to SK's GDP to new heights

kpop is a powerful economic driver, boosting SK's GDP through tourism, merch and concert revenue

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Kpop and soft power

explores how kpop is deliberately used by SK to improve its relationships with other countries through cultural diplomacy, making it a soft power tool to gain political leverage globally. kpop global success promotes this positive image of SK improving its diplomatic reach and influence on the world stage

impact on domestic policy

discusses how the SK government has integrated kpop into its national branding and policies. Highlights gov investment into cultural industries to solidify SK's global cultural leadership

North Korea's response to K-Pop

examines how North Korea perceives K-Pop as a cultural threat, putting bans on SK media to stop its cultural influence spreading inside North Korean borders. Cultural divide shows the contrast in sociopolitical realities for North and South Korea

Kpop's role in South-North Korean relations

analyses the way kpop has been used as part of diplomatic efforts between the two koreas, like during interkorean summits, where kpop performances were used to foster cultural connections. kpop influence goes beyond entertainment being symbolic in diplomatic practices.

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Cultural Hegemony

Antonio Gramsci's theory on cultural hegemony explores how dominant cultures maintain their power by controlling cultural norms and ideas. K-pop seen as a vehicle of SK cultural hegemony, subtly influencing global culture and reinforcing SK's position in the global cultural landscpae

global spread of kpop, influence on fashion language and entertainment can be seen as a reflection of SK soft power agenda

kpop operates in this framework by shaping global tastes and trends, helping SK subtly assert their cultural dominance internationally

Soft power

Joseph Nye's soft power concept suggests that countries can influence others through cultural attraction and appeal rather than military force and violence. Kpop is a huge part of SK's diplomatic strategy, using entertainment and cultural appeal to enhance its global reputation and foster positive relationships with other countries

Kpop success made it a key element of SK cultural diplomacy, promoting a positive image of the country globally

Kpop is a strategic tool for SK, fostering diplomatic relations and enhancing the country's image through cultural influence rather than political or economic pressure

SUMMARY

cultural hegemony

global spread of kpop can challenge western dominance

soft power

SK use of kpop as a tool to improve global image and influence international relationships

globalisation theory

kpop rise shows impact of globalisation on cultural diffusion and effects on global music and fashion trends

COMPARISON OF CULTURAL HEGEMONY AND SOFT POWER

cultural hegemony

antonio gramsci

kpop challenges western cultural dominance creating a new cultural norm in entertainment scene

introduced non western music to global mainstream that influences fashion, music and entertainment globally

challenges western cultural hegemony as kpop groups become symbols of cultural diversity and global appeal

theory relation to global rise - traditionally dominated by western cultures (USA), kpop rise disrupted this by creating new cultural force originates from asia. global success seen as cultural resistance to west dominance, introduces korean values aesthetics and music to international market reshaping global culture trends

soft power

joseph nye

kpop core element of SK soft power strategy

project positive national image, promote cultural exchanges and enhance diplomatic ties

speading SK culture globally, kpop enhance political influence and economic reach without needing political or military pressure

theory relation to global rise - kpop soft power effect more explicit - allows Sk shape international perceptions through cultural products. BTS promote message self love, global unity, social justice aligns with SK desire project itself as modern, inclusive and progressive nation. global fan base strengthens SK diplomatic relations with many countries enhancing political influence without using force

how kpop challenges western media dominance

breaks western monopoly - usa have dominance over global entertainment with hollywood and western music. kpop rise shows how non western country create new cultural superpower challenges dominance. fusion west genres hip hop, r and b and edm with kculture provides unique hybridised product with global appeal

global collabs - western artists with bts and coldplay, blackpink and dua lipa etc) enhance global force, allows penetrate western market whilst maintaining korean identity. kpop integrate and reshape global media

Explains how kpop challenges western media dominance while fitting into both cultural hegemony and soft power frameworks

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cultural hegemony

bts global phenomenon and shape youth culture, fashion and social attitudes glpbally. rise shows SK ability to project culture around the world subtle promoting SK ideals and lifestyle

kpop groups have global fashion trends like blackpink and become luxury brand ambassadors. SK dominance in influencing global consumerism through kpop

blackpink fashion influencers shows how kpop intertwined with SK soft power by promoting music and cultural products like fashion to further enforce K cultural hegemony

soft power

SK gov actively promotes kpop as part of cultural diplomacy, groups like BTS invited to speak at United Nations and adding to initiatives like Love myself campaign. use of soft power to foster positive global relations

tourism - kpop boost SK tourism, fans visit to attend concerts, visit filming locations and experience culture further enhancing soft power

concerts and MV's bt bts attract fans to SK, promotes tourism and reinforces SK image as cultural powerhouse. adds to soft power by showcasing koreas appeal beyond music

BTS AT UN

SK use of kpop for soft power, blends with cultural diplomacy. global message of unity and self love adds to nations positive image internationally

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KPOP's Global influence in terms of established theories

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KPOP's Global influence in terms of established theories

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Cultural diplomacy

use of culture to promote national interests and foster international relationships. Kpop is a cornerstone of SK cultural diplomacy, enhances its global reputation. Aligns well with cultural diplomacy theories which emphasises using cultural exports to build soft power.

kpop global expansion exposes challenges, like criticism of SK's entertainment industry practices. Sometimes creates tensions that dont fit the traditionally positive view of cultural diplomacy, where a country's image is uncontestedly favourable

alignment - kpop is a successful case study in cultural diplomacy, using entertainment as a tool to promote South Korean values and foster international goodwill

divergence - instances where industry practices generate negative attention, challenging purely positive connotations typically associated with cultural diplomacy

Globalisation

discuss how media, entertainment and culture flow across borders, and influence global culture. K-Pop has broken national boundaries, and puts itself in various cultures globally whilst keeping and growing its distinct identity. Aligns with globalisation of culture where local content becomes globally influential.

despite alignment, kpop presents a hybridized cultural form that diverges from globalisation theories suggesting homgenisation. kpop's unique fusion of korean and western elements illustrates how globalisation can lead to cultural fusion rather than homogenisation

alignment - kpop exemplifies how cultural products can go beyond national borders and integrate into global popular culture whilst kepeing their local elements.

divergenge - kpop demonstrates cultural hybridity, blending korean and western influences into something uniquely global.

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impact on policy

not just entertainment, reflection of SK evolving political landscape. politicians and gov bodies increasingly embraced kpop as a cultural export that aligns with national interests, supporting global reach through policies that promote cultural exchange

SK's ministry of culture, sports and tourism have actively supported kpop through funding and promotional initiatives, recognising role in enhancing the country's image on the global stage

kpop supported by SK government as a tool for advancing cultural and political interests, promoting policies that ensures its global success

national identity

kpop acts as a vehicle for projecting SK's modern and innovative identity to the world. blends traditional values with contemporary global pop culture, helping to redefine what it means to be korean in a globalised world

through international success of kpop idols, SK established a new form of cultural identity that moves beyong historical legacies of division and war, instead focusing on youth culture and creativity

kpop reshapes SK identity, blending tradition and modernity to present an innovative and global image

national identity and soft power

kpop strategically used by SK to strengthen cultural diplomacy and soft power. global popularity of kpop exemplified by bts and blackpink, used to improve SK's international image and foster better relationships with other countries

SK's government leveraged kpop for soft power gains, including through kpop themed cultural events and diplomatic initiatives that promote cultural exchange and improve international relations

kpop central component of SK soft power strategy, enhancing its international image and fostering diplomatic relations

North Korea's response to kpop

media censorship

strict censorship

block kpop content from reaching its people

consumption of kpop will get you a severe punishment - regime tight control over info

portrayal of SK culture

immoral and a threat to traditional north korean values

propaganda shows negative aspects of SK society to divert citizens from foreign media

how NK views kpop as a threat to its regime

regime view global influence of kpop as a challenge to its authority

kpop is an ideological threat - freedom of expression and exposes NK to contrasting views of prosperity and lifestyle

increasing underground consumption of kpop by NK youths threatens regimes control over cultural and ideological influence

kpop performances used in inter korean summits as a diplomatic tool

symbolises cultural exchange and good will

2018 pyongyang summit kpop used to foster dialogue and improve relations between NK and SK

highlight SK use of cultural diplomacy to ease tensions and build rapport with NK

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Cultural Hegemony

explains how dominant cultures can shape and influence global cultural trends

Kpop's global spread exemplifies how a local cultural phenomenon can challenge Western cultural dominance

Soft Power

refers to the use of cultural influence to achieve foreign policy goals and enhance national reputation

SK strategic use of kpop as a tool to improve its global image and influence international relations

globalisation theory

examines how global interconnectedness affects cultural exchange and economic activities

kpop's rise highlights the impact of globalisation on cultural diffusion and its effects on global music and fashion trends

kpops reach in southeast asia and africa, providing examples of how kpop functions as global product that influences these markets

Southeast asia - cultural similarities and geographical proximity

thailand, indonesia and phillipines major markets

blackpink lisa is from thailand increased groups popularity across the region

concerts and fan meetings very popular

many southeast asian fans engage with kpop on social media like youtube and tiktok boosting global visibility

africa

kpop popular with younger audiences

nigeria, kenya, south africa host kpop related events like dance competitions and fan gatherings

interest fostered on social media and online platforms where kpop accessibility allows it to break through other countrys borders

african fans like high production value and emphasis on creativity, drawing parallels between kpop entertainment structure and growing afrobeats scene

kpop as a global product

blackpink

lisa thailand

rose from new zealand

kpop idols come from diverse backgrounds, enhances global appeal

attracts diverse fans and makes music more accessible

SM entertainment collaboration with saudi arabia to develop localised pop (S-pop) enables kpop to sustain growth by embedding itself into various cultural settings whilst maintaining unified korean cultural identity

explain how globalisation theory supports the spread of kpop beyond western markets

broader trends in digital interconnectedness

blending of global and local cultures - glocalisation

kpop leverages social media, streaming platforms, and internet to transcend national boundaries capitalising on fan engagement and instant access to music in different time zones

supports idea global entertainment industries seamlessly integrate local cultural elements into a global marketplace

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Jin D.Y - 'Globalisation of K-Pop: Hybridisation of K-Pop Music and Global Culture'

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Jin D.Y - 'Globalisation of K-Pop: Hybridisation of K-Pop Music and Global Culture'

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Smith, J and Lee. H 'The Globalisation of Kpop: A cultural and political analysis'

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Smith, J and Lee. H 'The Globalisation of Kpop: A cultural and political analysis'

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Johnson, L. and Chen, Y. 'Cultural Hegemony and the global rise of k-pop: a review of theretical perspectives

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Johnson, L. and Chen, Y. 'Cultural Hegemony and the global rise of k-pop: a review of theretical perspectives

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WGSN (2023) Korean pop culture - driving global trends

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WGSN (2023) Korean pop culture - driving global trends

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Johnson, L. and Chen, Y. 'Cultural Hegemony and the global rise of k-pop: a review of theretical perspectives

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Johnson, L. and Chen, Y. 'Cultural Hegemony and the global rise of k-pop: a review of theretical perspectives

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South Korea and the USA: Strengthening ties through cultural diplomacy and K-Pop

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South Korea and the USA: Strengthening ties through cultural diplomacy and K-Pop

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How South Korean Music Industry Influences International Relations

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How South Korean Music Industry Influences International Relations

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kpop and comparisons with other cultural phenomena (Bollywood, Japanese anime)

cultural diplomacy and soft power

critical tools for building influence without coercion

South korea for kpop

india for bollywood

japan for anime

promote national image abroad and create favourable diplomatic environments

kpop, bollywood and anime add to soft power from social media influence, tourism and international connections (anime pilgrimages to japan)

affect foreign policy by enhancing countries global cultural appeal

contrasts with bollywood and anime

kpop exports are moderna nd youth driven in pop culture

bollywood is traditional and family centric with global appeal - diaspora communities (people who are indian but live in other countries)

japan and anime - multiculturalism and cosmopolitan worldview, attracts diverse international audiences without overt state control

cultural odorlessness / mukokuseki (lack of overt nationality) makes anime appealing to non japanese consumers

highlight how other countries use cultural products in unique ways to promote their soft power, aligning with specific national goals

bollywood reflects indian values

anime depoliticised characters help japan maintain global image without direct involvement from the state

globalisation and cultural products

spread understood by globalisation theory

culture flows across national borders shape hybrid identities and foster multicultural exchange

the 3 listed above consumed and interpreted in diverse ways by people around the world aligning with globalisations effects on cultural production and consumption

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Global success of BTS

BTS global success showcases kpop's capacity to transcend cultural boundaries and influence global pop culture

global music phenomenon impact on global pop culture, fashion and societal trends. self love, mental health awareness and social justice messages made them cultural ambassadors for SK

strategic use of social media and global tours have significantly enhanced SK cultural diplomacy

evidence - global chart topping albums and record-breaking social media engagement illustrate the power of kpop in shaping international music trends

significant fanbase expansion in western countries reflects successful cultural penetration

specific outcomes of bts success on south korean gov policies (tourism boosts, economic growth)

economic growth and boost tourism

$1bn impact due to increasing interest in tourism, exports and overall cultural appeal

large increase in tourism like collab with Seoul for "EoGiYeongCha" tourism campaign, highlighting cultural landmarks in music videos.

group catalyst for enhancing tourism strategies, reflecting gov support of kpop as a national asset

gov support for the creative industries

SK minister of culture, sports and tourism recognise need for supporting creative talent

gov efforts mean they have provided more resources and mentorship for future artists

in line with fostering SK creative industries as key contributers to the national economy

how has bts influence impacted domestic relations, particularly with USA and western nations

internaitonally especially in USA and the West

first korean group to top the billboard charts - elevate SK global standing

deeper diplomatic relations with the West, symbolising soft power to shape perceptions abroad

SK president Moon Jae-In public praise BTS, acknowledging role in strengthening SK cultural influence worldwide but especially in the states

expand on how kpop has shaped governmental and socio political narratives within south korea

shape both cultural and sociopolitical narratives in SK

gov active use of kpop stars to show modern k culture, blending tradition with innovation, positioning country as global cultural hub

self love, societal pressure and personal growth themes of bts reasonate with global youth, further enhancing SK soft power strategies and bolstering reputation as progressive, culturally rich nation

kpop as a tool for south korean soft power

kpop used by south korean gov as a strategic tool to enhance global influence and improve diplomatic relations

incorporation of kpop into south korea's cultural diplomacy strategy highlights its role in soft power

evidence - gov backed initiatives and partnerships with global brands demonstrate the deliberate use of kpop for international influence.

cultural exchange programs featuring kpop groups enhance south korean soft power

south korea uses kpop for soft power, north korea cultural exports highly controlled, focusing on state propaganda. NK influence minimal globally, state focuses more on political messages than pop culture

impact of kpop on domestic policies in south korea

rise of kpop influenced south korean policies, in terms of cultural policy and economic support for the entertainment industry

kpop industry growth has led to increased governmental support and investment in cultural exports

evidence - policy change and financial incentives aimed at supporting the kpop industry demonstrate its significant role in SK cultural and economic strategy

success of kpop resulted in cultural policy that prioritises expansion of SK's global cultural presence

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Blackpink set global fashion trends, work with luxury brands, promotes SK influence in fashion industry. global reach strengthens SK cultural hegemony contrasts with NK rigid cultural policies

NK cultural isolation dont allow for same global exchange, any cultura lproducts made meant for propaganda inside the state

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Linking global impact to socio political influences

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Linking global impact to socio political influences

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SK

SK Gov role - gov supports kpop as soft power, intertwines cultural diplomacy with global image. BTS at UN shows how SK use kpop to influence international perceptions

blackpink and bts represent SK identity innovation and creativity. that is projected globally and influences SK policies on cultural exports and diplomacy

strategically uses kpop promote positive global image, influence diplomacy relations and shape public image of nation. bts global presence solidify SK image as cultural powerhouse

kpop stars seen as reps of modern korean identity, showcasing countrys values of creativity, resilience and global integration

SK gov promotes hallyu (korean wave) through cultural policies supports kpop reach. policy boosts SK cultural export economy and reinforces national pride

NK

cultural exports (art and films) focused on propaganda, little global influence. stark contrast with SK thriving cultural exports. shows how each country sociopolitical context informs cultural diplomacy strategy

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global success of bts

findings

support - international success validates the thesis by showing how kpops global rise influences cultural perceptions and enhances south koreas cultural diplomacy. bts popularity internationally reflects kpops impact on international pop culture, aligning with idea that cultural phenomena like kpop can significantly affect global views of a nation

challenge - whilst bts exemplifies kpop global influence, also highlights a potentially narrow view, focusing primarily on music and entertainment without fully addressing socio political contexts

kpop as a tool for south korean soft power

support - case study directly supports thesis by illustrating how kpop is used as a strategic tool for SK soft power. Deliberate use of kpop in cultural diplomacy aligns with the notion that kpop intersects with SK's socio political contexts and enhances its global influence

challenge - by suggesting that while kpop is a tool for soft power, it doesnt fully capture the complex sociopolitical dynamics between north and south korea

impact of kpop on domestic policies in north korea

support - reinforces thesis by showing how kpop success led to significant policy changes in SK, highlighting interplay between kpop and domestic socio political contexts. shows how kpops global influence impacts national policies, aligning with thesis that kpop intersects with socio political contexts

challenge - not directly address north korean context, may limit the comprehensive analysis of socio political intersections of kpop in the korean peninsula

OVERALL

support

demonstrates how kpop global rise influences cultural perceptions and contributes to SK socio political strategy

show how kpop is used to project SK image, enhance its cultural diplomacy and shape domestic policies

challenges

limited focus on north korea - not as thoroughly covered in the case studies.

whilst kpop impact on south koreas policies and global image is well documented, intersection with north korean sociopolitical contexts is less explored, potentially leaving a gap in the analysis of kpops influence across the korean peninsula

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Global impact studies and thesis

Analyse how K-Pop's global influence, especially through groups like BTS, ties back to your thesis on socio-political contexts. Show how the global reach of K-Pop strengthens South Korea’s soft power and cultural diplomacy while highlighting the contrast with North Korea’s lack of cultural exports.

Link to Thesis: The rise of K-Pop globally enhances South Korea’s image internationally, positioning it as a cultural powerhouse. This reinforces your thesis on the relationship between K-Pop's success and the socio-political context of the Korean peninsula.

Cultural Hegemony and Theories (Case Studies)

Evaluate how K-Pop, especially through BTS, challenges the theory of Cultural Hegemony. The global spread of K-Pop introduces a non-Western influence, shifting cultural dominance away from traditional Western media.

This analysis strengthens the argument that K-Pop’s rise intersects with global socio-political trends, pushing against Western cultural dominance and reshaping cultural hierarchies.

soft power and theories (case studies)

Use the case of BTS to demonstrate how K-Pop advances South Korea's soft power, as their global popularity helps spread South Korean culture and ideology worldwide, influencing international perceptions.

This aligns directly with your thesis on K-Pop's socio-political role, showing how its international reach impacts South Korea's diplomatic efforts.

link findings to existing literature

In your Literature Review, connect your findings with prior studies on K-Pop’s global cultural influence. Discuss whether your findings support or contrast with existing literature on South Korea’s use of K-Pop for soft power.

By comparing your research with previous studies, you demonstrate how your work either supports or challenges current knowledge, reinforcing your thesis about K-Pop’s influence on socio-political relations.

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Discuss the long-term impacts of K-Pop on South Korea’s diplomatic relations, particularly in emerging markets.

strengthens ties with emerging markets

helped SK build stronger relationships with Southeast asia, middle east and africa

cultural ties improving bilateral relations (between SK and other countries on a 1-1 level) and promote SK as modern, progressive nation

engaging fans in these regions, kpop boosts soft power improving cooperation and exchanges in trade tourism and tech

Explore how K-Pop could shape the future of public diplomacy, focusing on specific policy initiatives.

kpop significant role in future public diplomacy strategies

SK gov already started supporting cultural initiatives like kpop performances abroad and collabs with local artists

future policies could focus on promoting global cultural exchanges, increasing gov sponsored programs that use kpop to connect with young audiences worldwide and use digital platforms for broader international outreach

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kpop continue shape global trends in music fashion and entertainment, bts and blackpink leaders. extends influence past entertainment into global diplomacy

recommendation - explore kpop evolving influence in new markets (africa and latin america) and potential role in shaping public diplomacy between SK and rest of the world

GAPS IN CURRENT RESEARCH

limited research kpop influence on countries with strained relations with SK, like NK China and Japan. Research needs to focus on how kpop impacts public perception and diplomatic relations in these regions

recommendation - track impact of kpop over time in regions with political tensions, focus on youth culture and public diplomacy impact

international diplomacy long term effects -

kpop powerful tool in SK soft power diplomacy, more research needed to show future evolution

recommendation - how kpop influences international relations, context of global cultural exchange programs

Address the limitations of K-Pop as a tool for cultural diplomacy.

narrow audience appeal - global appeal not extend to all cultures, limiting its diplomatic reach

international audiences might misunderstand or misinterpret cultural elements and messages in kpop

commercialised focus rather than diplomatic engagement, overshadows cultural diplomacy potential

political issues between countries can affect reception of kpop, impacting effectiveness in diplomatic efforts

global spread might lead to homogenisation (form by blending unlike elements) of diverse korean cultural elements, reducing depth of cultural exchange

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theoretical implications

understanding cultural diplomacy - how kpop serves as a tool for south koreas cultural diplomacy, effectively projecting a positive national image globally. supports soft power theory and cultural hegemony, highlighting kpops role in influencing global cultural perceptions and national branding

key point - kpop not only reflects SK cultural values but actively shapes international attitudes and policies, validation the theoretical frameworks used

sociopolitical contexts - by applying cultural hegemony, research underscores how kpop intersects with SK domestic policies and international strategies. illustrates how kpop leveraged for soft power, influencing both cultural and political arenas

key point - use of kpop as a diplomatic tool aligns with theoretical perspectives on how cultural products can influence global political dynamics

practical implications

cultural diplomacy strategies - kpop success highlights how effective using popular culture as a diplomatic tool. practical implications for how countries can leverage cultural phenomena to enhance their international standing and influence

recommendations - gov and cultural org. should consider integrating cultural phenomena into their diplomatic strategise to build and maintina positive international relationships

marketing and economic impact - significant economic contributions of kpop, tourism and merch sales, offer valuable insights inot how cultural industries can drive national economic growth

recommendations - stakeholders in the cultural and entertainment sectors should invest in, and promote popular culture as a means to boost economic development and international trade

recommendations for future studies

longitudinal studies to track the long term effects of kpop on international relations and cultural perceptions

understanding how kpop influence evolves over time can provide deeper insight into sustained impact on global cultural trends and diplomatic relations

comparative analysis of regional impacts particularly focusing on areas with strained relations with south korea

understand how kpops influence varies across different socio political contexts and regions

examination of north korean content and how kpops global rise intersects with the socio political contexts of north korea despite limited data available.

including NK in analysis provides more comprehensive view of kpop impact across korean peninsula and broader geopolitical landscape

detailed economic impact assessment of kpops economic contributions, including its effects on specific industries and local economies

understanding economic impact in greater detail can inform better policy making and investment strategies

OVERALL

support

collectively supports thesis by showing how kpop global rise influences cultural perceptions and contributes to SK socio political strategy. show how kpop used to project SK image, enhance cultural diplomacy and shape domestic policy.

challenges

limited focus on NK, not as thoroughly covered in case studies. while kpop impact on SK policies and global image is well documented, intersection with NK sociopolitical contexts is less explored, potentially leaving a gap in comprehensive analysis of kpops influence across the korean peninsula

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K-Pop's regional impact

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indonesia has the hightest percentage of spotify listeners (45%)

Phillipines has the lowest percentage of spotify listeners (3%)

South Korea has the most instagram followers (36%)

Singapore has the least instagram followers (4%)

South Korea has the highest amount of youtube views (47%)

Japan has the lowest amount of youtube views (4%)