Thursday, June 26, 2008

The Korean Wave


In Asia and even all over the world, Korean pop culture has had a considerable impact hence, the name Hallyu which means "Korean wave." For example, in Japan and other Asian countries like the Philippines, Korean boybands like TVXQ and television dramas like Winter Sonata were received quite well and have found success. Rain, the Korean pop icon, has been recognized in Asia and has began to make waves in the American market. Korean movies like Dragon wars, Oldboy, Oasis, and My Sassy Girl have also received International recognition.

It is technology which has dominated the Korean modern way of life. From top-of-the-line cellular phones, and the latest on-line games, Koreans have had much to spend their time and money on. Korea has one of the highest number of households which have very fast internet access. Computer games are serious business in South Korea. These are regarded like a major sport where there are professional commentators, professional players and major sponsors.

Starcraft, for instance, is one of the most popular games in Korea. There are over five million gamers and actually has two television channels that broadcast games and up-to-the minute updates on winners, games and other on-line gaming features. This pop culture has created professional gamers like Lim Yo-Hwan aka "SlayerS 'Boxer' who earned as much as $300,000 at the prime of his career.

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