Rise of K-Dramas: Essays on Korean Television and Its Global Consumption

Korean dramas, or "K-dramas," gained popularity across Asia in the late 1990s and have since gained a global following. Despite cultural differences, non-Asian audiences have found them appealing. These dramas range in content and form, from historical melodrama to romantic comedy to action, horror, sci-fi, and thriller. Devotees of K-dramas engage in an immersive fandom, consuming Korean food, fashion, and music, learning Korean, and traveling to Korea for firsthand experiences. This collection of essays examines the cultural impact of K-dramas and their fandom, focusing on the formation and transformation of identities in the context of regional and global dynamics and differing values and beliefs among social groups.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 194 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2019
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

Korean dramas have experienced a remarkable surge in popularity across Asia in the late 1990s, and their global fan base continues to expand. Despite cultural disparities, non-Asian audiences have embraced "K-dramas" with great enthusiasm. These diverse shows encompass a wide range of genres, including historical melodrama, romantic comedy, action, horror, sci-fi, and thriller.

Devotees of Korean dramas embark on an immersive journey, engaging in various activities to deepen their connection to the genre. They indulge in Korean cuisine, fashion, and music, study the language to better understand their favorite shows, and even travel to Korea to experience the culture firsthand.

This collection of new essays delves into the cultural impact of K-dramas and their passionate fandom. It explores the formation and transformation of identities within the context of regional and global dynamics, as well as the diverse values and beliefs held by different social groups. Contributors analyze popular series such as "Boys over Flowers," "My Love from the Star," and "Descendants of the Sun," shedding light on their enduring popularity and the profound impact they have had on audiences worldwide.

Weight: 318g
Dimension: 153 x 224 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476677477