K-dramas: South Korea's Cultural Wave Conquers Global Screens
K-dramas from South Korea have emerged as a worldwide sensation, significantly boosting the nation's soft power. Their diverse range of genres, including romance and thriller, has contributed to their global appeal, highlighted by Netflix's 'Squid Game,' which garnered over 260 million viewers, becoming the platform's top fiction title. These dramas shape consumer behavior, sparking a rise in interest for Korean language, food, and beauty products. The 2016 series 'Descendants of the Sun' notably increased tourism and sales of South Korean goods in China, although diplomatic conflicts regarding the THAAD missile system resulted in content limitations in Beijing. This cultural wave, referred to as 'Hallyu,' is explored in RFI's podcast episode released on August 8, 2026, featuring commentary from Ophélie Surcouf and Aïchath Mamane Yirou.
Key facts
- K-dramas are among the most exported TV series globally.
- Squid Game attracted over 260 million viewers, becoming Netflix's most-watched fiction.
- The Korean Wave (Hallyu) enhances South Korea's soft power.
- K-dramas influence consumer habits, including language, cuisine, cosmetics, and tourism.
- Descendants of the Sun (2016) boosted tourism and sales in China.
- China limited South Korean content due to THAAD missile system deployment.
- Ophélie Surcouf is a journalist and author of books on Korean culture.
- Aïchath Mamane Yirou runs the TikTok account 'Mya Dreams' focused on K-dramas.
Entities
Artists
- Ophélie Surcouf
- Aïchath Mamane Yirou
Institutions
- Netflix
- RFI
Locations
- South Korea
- China
- Seoul