The Internet age opens up Korean pop culture & music to the entire world
Implications - Originating in South Korea, K-pop is a musical genre that has exploded onto the North American scene. The k-pop anthem most commonly known worldwide, Gangnam Style, hit airwaves and the subculture has since been adopted into a range of global products, advertising campaigns and inspired fashion retailers.
Trend Themes
1. K-pop Globalization - The popularity of K-pop music and culture is expanding globally, leading to cross-cultural collaborations and partnerships with Western celebrities and brands.
2. Viral Video Merchandising - The success of viral videos like Gangnam Style is leading to the creation of merchandise and products that capture the attention of dedicated fans.
3. User-generated Infographics and Remixes - The popularity of viral videos is leading to the creation of user-generated content such as infographics and remixes that highlight their impact on popular culture.
Industry Implications
1. Music Industry - The rise of K-pop as a globally recognized genre presents opportunities for collaborations, licensing, and marketing initiatives targeting a global market.
2. E-commerce Industry - The success of viral videos is leading to merchandising opportunities for e-commerce businesses, with products ranging from novelty items to collectibles.
3. Digital Marketing Industry - The popularity of viral videos is leading to the creation of user-generated content, providing opportunities for digital marketing agencies to develop campaigns that tap into popular culture.
