From K-pop to career: Can universities turn cultural fandom into lasting education?

K-pop has become a global cultural juggernaut, propelling Korea to the forefront of the world's entertainment stage and turning the country into a top destination for international students. But as the Korean wave surges, the question remains: Can K-pop's initial appeal translate into lasting educational impact, or will it be just another passing trend for universities? "While Koreans initially reacted with skepticism to global hits like 'Squid Game' or 'KPop Demon Hunters,' unlike the enthusiasm of international fans, these pop culture moments ultimately exploded in popularity," said Michael Hurt, adjunct professor at Korea National University of Arts and photographer, during a session of the QS Higher Ed Summit: Asia Pacific. "They are now seen as smart gateways that can lead to deeper engagement with Korea’s culture and society." Before the recent surge in global popularity driven by BTS and "KPop Demon Hunters," Hurt pinpointed Psy's "Gangnam Style" in 2012 as the beginning of Korean culture’s global explosion. He highlighted the pivotal role platforms like YouTube and Netflix plWeiter zum vollständigen Artikel bei Korea Times Weiter zum vollständigen Artikel bei Korea Times