Hallyu - The Next Sweeping Cultural Wave

Hallyu is the neological term used for the Korean Wave which translates to the " flow of Korea" . Although used to refer to South Korea's increasing popularity it was originally coined by the Chinese and translates to the Korean Wave.

Basically, Hallyu is the increase in the global popularity of South Korean culture across various section of society all around the world.

First driven by the increasing popularity of K-dramas (Korean dramas) and K-pop music(Korean popular music) across various parts of the Asian continent Hallyu has received a strong boost in the 21^st century due to the immense strength of social media. Global platforms like YouTube, Instagram, Netflix etc. are helping users get acquainted with South Korean culture and enjoy it to the fullest.

The most popular South Korean exports are that from the film, television and music industries along with their cuisine which is seen with people thronging to K- pop artist concerts and embracing the different food products and dishes. The Korean Wave is proving extremely beneficial to the small nation helping it increase its status and maintaining a growing global status.

You may have come across this cultural wave in small doses through peer groups, social media and restaurants. Although seemingly trivial these are the small steps in that wave that is sweeping the world slowly but surely.

Music filled with various forms of choreography along with spunky colourful costumes are bringing back the performance aspect that western music has been missing , causing the creation of fanbases made up of millions across the globe. Dramas filled with romance , thrills and historical timelines portrayed by actors and actresses with picture perfect beauty attract viewers all across. The cuisine has been gaining major acceptance worldwide with Korean restaurants with native owners providing comfort and fusion food filled with spices , various meats, stews and side dishes that never seem to end across the globe. Known for keeping up with trends, the Korean fashion is an epitome of fashionably comfortable with looks ranging from bubblegum cutesy to clean business like handsome attires.

All of this has boosted the economy and presence of the tiny Asian nation that earlier wasn't even on the radar of the world. Hardcore fans of this culture that have been swept by it uniqueness are even going to the length of adopting aspects of this culture into their daily lives. The love for this culture may be hard to understand without experiencing it and so a first hand experience is always best to see what the hype is all about.

If you already know about this and love it like me you'll be glad to know that if you look you'll surely find a way to enjoy it the culture even more with cultural festivals and restaurants doing pop- ups nearby. If not well... you're missing out!

Curious yet? If yes head over to YouTube and watch some K-pop music videos, scroll through their various recipes if you're a foodie, go through their impeccably modern and stunning fashion choices! The language barrier won't be a problem in this day and age due to the global online community always present to help you out.

Don't miss out on this fun culture that you'll surely enjoy some aspect of. So, go ahead put your hands up and enjoy riding this wave!