The Korean Wave 2.0 in Singapore: Urban Professional Dramas and the modern consumer

• In Event: Screen Borders: Transnational Studies of Television and Film

Abstract

This paper examined whether the impact of Korean wave 2.0 is amplified in the Eastern Asian market as internet-based new technology provided the audiences more power to participate in creation and circulation. Based on theories of cultural proximity and Asian modernity, a case study was conducted to understand the consumption of urban professional dramas in Singapore. The results showed that new technology indeed expanded a wider acceptance of Korean drama in the younger generation. In the twenties age group, they preferred to watch Korean dramas in English subtitles through internet websites. In the thirties age group, they liked to purchase Korean drama DVDs; however, they preferred to switch to the original language, Korean, and to use Chinese subtitles. At the same time, a deep cultural influence appeared within the cultural-linguistic market, as Korean wave has expanded its popularity in the global market.

Author

• Laichi Chen, Shantou Univeristy