When PSY released Gangnam Style in 2012, no one could have predicted how the "Korea" he sang about would slowly become intertwined with our everyday lives. From the food we eat to the skincare we use, Korean culture is leaving its mark everywhere. The global phenomenon of BTS, the Bangtan Boys, and the irresistible world of K-dramas have captivated generations, shaping cultural trends across the globe.
Hallyu, or the Korean Wave, has had a profound impact on three generations, and its influence continues to grow. At the heart of this cultural wave lies Itaewon-dong, a vibrant neighborhood in Seoul that embodies South Korea’s diversity and global connections. Just three kilometers from the Han River, Itaewon is a multicultural hub where cultures from all over the world converge.
Thanks to Hallyu, “small Koreas” can now be found in every corner of the globe, spreading Korean culture far and wide. In this issue, Outlook explores the deep roots of Korean culture in India. The recent surge in demand for South Korean author Han Kang’s works, especially after she was named the 2024 Nobel Literature Laureate, is one example of the growing popularity of Korean literature.
For many Indian readers, discovering K-lit often begins with K-pop and K-dramas. Pachinko, a novel about four generations of a Korean family’s immigration to Japan, is one such work that has piqued Indian interest in Korean stories. This issue of Outlook delves into how these cultural forms are connected an.
