The Korean Wave: an Authentic Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

I recently had the privilege of taking an online course on Korean philosophy, and I must say it was a truly enlightening experience. This course, rooted in the rich cultural tapestry of Korea, delves deep into concepts that resonate with anyone seeking a new perspective on life.

One of the most captivating aspects of this course was the exploration of the "Korean Matrix." It's a concept that beautifully illustrates how Korea has absorbed and transformed external influences, crafting a cultural identity that is uniquely Korean. Understanding this process allowed me to appreciate the depth and authenticity of Korean thought. What follows is my final assignment, an article which had to combine present-day culture and the aspects of philosophy we considered as the most interesting in the course.   In recent decades, South Korea has experienced an extraordinary cultural phenomenon known as the "Korean Wave" or "Hallyu," where Korean film, TV, and music have captured the hearts of global audiences.This cultural wave is a fascinating case study in the way Korean thought and worldview have influenced and shaped modern Korean culture.

One striking aspect of the Korean Wave is its innovative nature. Korean entertainment has managed to be both adaptive and disruptive simultaneously. It adapts by embracing elements from various global cultures, such as Western pop music and Hollywood storytelling, but also disrupts the status quo with its unique blend of tradition and modernity. It's a prime example of the Korean Matrix, where foreign influences are expertly digested to create something authentically Korean,as exemplified in hit TV series like "Crash Landing on You" and films like "Parasite."

A scene from the K-drama series Crashlanding on You (2019)

The Korean way of thinking plays a pivotal role in shaping this cultural innovation. One of the most evident aspects of the Korean worldview is the concept of "Han" and the mind-heart duality. Han represents the deep, collective sorrow and resilience of the Korean people, and this emotion is often portrayed in Korean dramas and films. Characters in these narratives often grapple with intense emotional conflicts, reflecting the Korean belief in the interconnectedness of the mind and heart, asportrayed in the emotional depth of Korean dramas like "Reply 1988" or “Pachinko”

The cast of K-drama series Reply 1988

Moreover, the Korean emphasis on the collective "we" can be seen in the strong sense of community and family values depicted in Korean entertainment. Korean dramas, in particular, highlight the importance of interpersonal relationships and how they shape an individual's life. This emphasis on everyday feelings and morality underscores the Korean belief in the interconnectedness of people and their impact on each other.

Korean music, notably K-pop, also embodies the Korean worldview. K-pop's emphasis on group dynamics, teamwork, and synchronized performances reflects the Korean notion of the collective over the individual. The emphasis on discipline, hard work, and humility mirrors the values deeply ingrained in Korean society,which is reflected in the success of pop music bands like BTS, where teamwork and unity play a pivotal role in their global acclaim.

BTS's synchronized choreographies 

In conclusion, the Korean Wave is a remarkable showcase of how Korean culture has adapted to global influences while remaining rooted in its traditional worldview. It's an innovation that manages to be both adaptive and disruptive, drawing on concepts like the mind-heart duality, the Korean sense of collective identity, and the importance of everyday emotions and morality. The Korean Wave not only entertains the world but also provides a window into the unique and profound aspects of Korean thought and culture.