Exploring South Korean K-Drama Culture in Indonesia

ABSTRACT
Korean Drama, or known as K-Drama, has become a cultural
phenomenon that embellishes the entertainment market in Indonesia. This essay
aims to explore the influence and popularity of K-Drama in Indonesian culture.
The research uses qualitative methods with case studies approaches to dig deeper
understanding of how K-Drama affects Indonesian behavior and perception of
South Korean culture.
First, this study describes the history and development of K-Drama in
Indonesia. Through historical analysis, we can see how K-Drama has become one
of the most sought-after genres in the Indonesian entertainment industry.
Furthermore, the study analyzes the reasons behind the popularity of K-drama in
Indonesia, including factors such as strong narrative, strong characters, and
universal themes that can connect with the audience of Indonesia. One significant
impact was the increased interest of Indonesians in South Korean language and
culture. K-Drama is not only a source of entertainment, but also a window for the
audience to gain a deeper understanding of everyday life and South Korean
cultural values. In addition, the study also discusses how K-Drama shapes trends
and lifestyles among Indonesian teenagers, such as fashion and eating habits.
Finally, this study underscores the social and cultural implications of the
popularity of K-Drama in Indonesia. Although K-Drama has had a positive
impact in enriching Indonesian pop culture, there are also concerns about South
Korean cultural domination that could shift local culture. Therefore, it is
important for governments and cultural stakeholders to promote cultural diversity
and ensure that the popularity of K-drama does not hinder appreciation of local
culture.
Keywords: Korean Drama, K-Drama, South Korean culture, Indonesia,
popularity, social impact.