Korean Hallyu=Soft Power in Asia

The "Korean Wave" is a key example of soft power and its positive effects. Created in direct reaction to losing production to China, they had to create a way to sustain their economy. So, they created an entire entertainment industry, complete with drama, film, and music. With key branding, the advertising for the country was aired in Japan, China, and southeast Asia. The effect was an increase in tourism and an obsession with Korean culture, to an extent by some. "K-pop" stars became popular, even though they might not sing in the language of their fan's country. To aid this, many music stars are fluent in more than one language so that they can expand their fan base. The end result was that Asian women were having plastic surgery to look more "Korean" and women wanted to marry Korean males.

I believe that America should take note. Korea has created a sphere of influence (not exactly in the history sense of the phrase) in the sense that Asian countries began to notice the country. With an increase in tourism, more people explored the country which also boosted their economy. If America was to create more entertainment opportunities that were geared at gaining support, America's reputation as a whole could improve. Not to mention it would return us to the good days of decent popular culture that was something to be proud of and not embarrassed by....