Introducing Korean Popular Culture

A new textbook provides an introduction to Korean popular culture, exploring its multifaceted meaning at micro and macro levels and the process of cultural production, representation, circulation, and consumption in a global context. Drawing on perspectives from the humanities and social sciences, it offers a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of Korean popular culture and its historical underpinnings, changing roles, and dynamic meanings in the digital social media age.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 302 pages
Publication date: 28 June 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This groundbreaking new textbook is a timely and interdisciplinary guide for students seeking an introduction to the captivating world of Korean popular culture. It delves into the multifaceted essence of Korean popular culture, exploring its significance at both micro and macro levels, as well as the intricate process of cultural production, representation, circulation, and consumption within a global context.

Drawing upon perspectives from a diverse range of humanities and social sciences, including media and communications, film studies, musicology, cultural studies, sociology, anthropology, history, and literature, this book offers a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of Korean popular culture and its rich historical roots. It sheds light on the evolving roles and dynamic meanings of Korean popular culture in the contemporary era of digital social media.

The textbook is organized into several compelling sections, each dedicated to exploring different facets of Korean popular culture. These sections include:

K-pop Music: This section delves into the vibrant world of K-pop, examining its origins, evolution, and global impact. It explores the rise of K-pop stars, the music industry, and the cultural significance of K-pop in shaping Korean identity and popular culture.

Popular Cinema: This section explores the rich tapestry of Korean popular cinema, from classic films to contemporary blockbusters. It examines the themes, aesthetics, and cultural significance of Korean films, as well as their influence on global cinema.

Television: This section examines the evolution of Korean television and its impact on popular culture. It explores popular TV shows, dramas, and variety programs, as well as the role of television in shaping societal values and norms.

Web Drama, Webtoon, and Animation: This section explores the growing popularity of web-based content in Korea, including web dramas, webtoons, and animated series. It examines the creative processes, storytelling techniques, and cultural significance of these forms of media.

Digital Games and Esports: This section explores the booming esports industry in Korea and its impact on popular culture. It examines the rise of professional gamers, the competitive gaming scene, and the cultural significance of esports in shaping young people's identities.

Lifestyle Media, Fashion, and Food: This section explores the intersection of lifestyle media, fashion, and food in Korean popular culture. It examines the role of fashion, food, and lifestyle magazines in shaping societal expectations and consumer behavior.

Nation Branding: This section examines the strategies and tactics used by Korea to promote its national brand and image abroad. It explores the cultural diplomacy, tourism, and cultural exchange programs that contribute to Korea's global reputation.

This textbook is designed to be accessible, comprehensive, and thought-provoking, providing historical and contemporary contexts, key issues, and debates related to Korean popular culture. It will appeal to students of popular culture, media studies, and Korean culture and society more broadly.

In conclusion, this groundbreaking new textbook offers a valuable resource for students and scholars seeking to understand the complexities and significance of Korean popular culture. It provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of Korean popular culture, exploring its historical roots, evolving roles, and dynamic meanings in the contemporary world. With its interdisciplinary approach, this textbook will be an invaluable tool for students and educators alike, fostering a deeper understanding of Korean popular culture and its impact on global society.

Weight: 592g
Dimension: 245 x 174 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032274089