Drama, Music, and Minds: The K-Media Effect on Japanese perceptions of Korean
N. Schulte
Kaetsu Ariake Junior Senior High School, Tokyo, Japan
Publication date: October 23, 2024
Kaetsu Ariake Junior Senior High School, Tokyo, Japan
Publication date: October 23, 2024
DOI: http://doi.org/10.34614/JIYRC202417
ABSTRACT
This study examines the impact of Korean media (K-media) consumption on Japanese perceptions of South Korea, exploring cultural diplomacy's role in shaping international relations. Through a questionnaire (n = 154) and ordinary least-square regression analysis, the relationship between various forms of K-media consumption and both positive and negative perceptions was investigated. Results indicate K-media consumption, particularly K-pop and K-dramas, and individual characteristics such as age, gender and ethnicity, and time abroad were significantly associated with positive perceptions of Koreans. Conversely, negative perceptions were associated with expenditure on K-media related products, individual characteristics, specifically ethnicity, and the respondent’s time abroad. The study reveals that cultural diplomacy, through media exposure, can effectively influence individual perceptions even in the context of longstanding historical tensions between Japan and South Korea. These shifts in perception may have broader implications for bilateral relations, potentially enhancing trade, facilitating worker exchange, and promoting diversity. This paper contributes to our understanding of cultural diplomacy's effectiveness in fostering international understanding.
This study examines the impact of Korean media (K-media) consumption on Japanese perceptions of South Korea, exploring cultural diplomacy's role in shaping international relations. Through a questionnaire (n = 154) and ordinary least-square regression analysis, the relationship between various forms of K-media consumption and both positive and negative perceptions was investigated. Results indicate K-media consumption, particularly K-pop and K-dramas, and individual characteristics such as age, gender and ethnicity, and time abroad were significantly associated with positive perceptions of Koreans. Conversely, negative perceptions were associated with expenditure on K-media related products, individual characteristics, specifically ethnicity, and the respondent’s time abroad. The study reveals that cultural diplomacy, through media exposure, can effectively influence individual perceptions even in the context of longstanding historical tensions between Japan and South Korea. These shifts in perception may have broader implications for bilateral relations, potentially enhancing trade, facilitating worker exchange, and promoting diversity. This paper contributes to our understanding of cultural diplomacy's effectiveness in fostering international understanding.
