How Korean culture is influencing the Bangladeshi youth

Korean culture has been sweeping the globe over the last decade, having such a tremendous influence that the entire process has been dubbed "Hallyu" translating to "the Korean Wave." This Korean wave is impacting different aspects of Bangladeshi youth culture as well, including fashion, music, movies, dietary habits, and so on.

When it comes to the Korean culture in Bangladesh, music is undoubtedly the first thing that springs to mind. Artists and groups like PSY, CL, HyunA, BTS, EXO, and BLACKPINK have helped spread the K-pop craze in Bangladesh.

PSY's Gangnam Style, which was the biggest success in the globe at the time, in a way, acted as the doorway to the world of K-pop in Bangladesh. By 2017, BTS, the world's most successful K-pop group, had broken into the worldwide music scene, and Bangladesh was no exception. At present, many Bangladeshi youth take their initial steps into the world of K-pop through BTS and its music.

K-pop's rise in popularity has had a significant impact on the younger generation, and peer groups are one of the most crucial variables in this effect. K-pop singers are distinguished from other pop musicians by their distinct style, out-of-the-box lyrical concepts, synchronised singing, and dancing, engaging and catchy tunes, attractive performers, and colourful music videos, all of which are appealing to the younger generation. Thanks to social media, K-pop music and content spread like wildfire on the internet, and it is these fans that ensure this spread.

Besides, K-pop artists use their music to promote happiness, peace, mental wellbeing, and other relatable topics, which captivates listeners even more. The artists' distinct way of life involving stringent skincare, fitness, and talent development regimens have also managed to resonate with our local youth.

K-dramas and movies are the second most popular Korean cultural export in Bangladesh. Since the beginning of Hallyu, the Korean government has insisted that its television shows and films, particularly K-dramas, compete globally due to their high production value, relevant themes, and emotionally charged sequences.

Bangladeshi fans like that these shows have relatable content and encourage emotional elements of their life. Series like Reply 1988, Crash Landing on You, Goblin, and Hospital Playlist are all-time favourites amongst fans globally, including in Bangladesh. Not to mention Squid Game, which has been the most viewed binge-worthy series on Netflix since its inception, and is also ranked first on Bangladesh's viewership list. Besides, Parasite winning Best Picture at the Academy Awards in 2020 brought in an even bigger audience at the doorsteps of Korean pop culture, especially Korean films, and dramas.

What's fascinating about K-drama and Korean movie fan bases in Bangladesh, as well as the world, is that many young people are trying to learn the Korean language by watching these TV series and movies. It acts as a way for them to learn a new language, as well as encourages them to envision a life in Korea, either for higher studies or job purposes.

Then comes the case with Korean food, specifically Korean style ramen. The availability of Korean ramen and ramen sauce in Bangladeshi shops is noteworthy. You are bound to come across these products right by the side of our local noodles and sauces. Whereas the average Bangladeshi adult will almost always opt for a local product, those from a younger generation are more likely to pick up the packet of Korean ramen.

Korean skincare is another important aspect that should not be overlooked. This form of skincare became popular with the youth due to its high efficacy, usage of natural and traditional substances used by Koreans for decades, and cruelty-free ingredients. One major issue with these skincare products, however, is that their advertisements are often misleading. They end up promoting unrealistic aesthetic standards, which does not go well with their customers once they realise that they have been tricked.

It's natural that a culture will have elements people from a different culture will find hard to adapt to. However, our youth have mostly taken the elements that have a more positive appeal within the Korean culture itself.

In the past few years, we have seen K-pop fans donating money and engaging in social work in the name of their favourite artist or group. We have seen fans organise events that allow like-minded people from different parts of the country to come under one roof, participate in music, art, and dance contests, and engage in conversation about K-pop and Korean culture in general.

The Bangladeshi youth have embraced the Korean culture, and are using it as a means to spread positivity within their communities, as well as outside of it. Even those who are not that into Korean culture should in no way see it as a bad influence and rather accept the many positives that accompanies it.