K-Culture: The Trendsetter of the Present

Oppas delivering romantic excitement to girls, samgyeopsal and ramen all over the place, K-pop fans everywhere singing their idols’ famous songs, Korean dramas on Netflix and even on YouTube, die-hard Korean fans speaking their languages as well — these are some of the few shreds of evidence that Koreans are starting to conquer not just the Philippines, but the whole world. Korean Culture has been prominent not just in their country but especially here in the Philippines. Filipino people cannot deny the fact that they are hooked with the kind of lifestyle and customs the Koreans have. With the food they eat, the way they dress, the shows they watch, their party themes, and the songs they listen to, it is undeniable that most Filipinos are really into the Korean Culture. 

The foodies. “Mas-issneun!” (delicious). The Philippines is known to have mouth-watering delicacies in every region, but at this moment, Korean dishes such as Kimchi, Bulgogi, Bibimbap, Japchae, Ddukbokki, Samgyeopsal, and many more are famous to the taste of the Filipino people. These Korean cuisines are undeniably delicious and indeed, they have caught the attention of many. Korean restaurants are also all over the Philippines and are renowned in every city and province. Knowing that Koreans usually offer spicy food, Filipinos are also into the trend of eating these dishes such as the spicy noodles which became a trend a few years ago and is still known by many until now. Koreans are undeniably rich in their cuisines and this is also the reason why other nations love the kind of food that they have.

Kdrama Lovers. “Saranghaeyo…” This line is one of the famous lines featured in some famous Korean dramas. And yes, Kdramas are available to watch all over the internet and could outshine some of the dramas even the Philippines offers. Before “Crash Landing on You” started, there was “Jewel in the Palace”, “Stairway to Heaven”, “Full House”, and a lot more, which became well known in the mid-2000s. When the quarantine began, people chose to watch Kdramas to ease the boredom that they feel. Others would choose to stay up all night just to finish the episode that they were waiting for — something a lot of people seem to relate to. Even though they feel sleepy, they would still choose to stay up and finish the drama that they are watching, probably due to the thrilling and exciting nature of these stories. Whether the genre is romantic, thriller, comedy, or even drama, Filipino fans would not let go of the opportunity to watch their favorite series. Korean dramas are indeed extraordinary; that is why Filipino fans are going crazy over them.

The singers and dancers. Kpop fans, make some noise! Blackpink, EXO, Red Velvet, BTS, Seventeen, Momoland, Girls’ Generation, Big Bang, Super Junior, 2NE1, and a lot more — these are just some of the few Korean bands that Filipino people idolize. It has come to the point that they are learning the steps of the dances sung and performed by their idols. With the great and catchy beats that Korean songs have, it is indisputable that Filipinos are into their music. Concerts of these bands are also supported by their fans and by the time these concerts are about to commence, fans are already excited. For sure, it will be a jam-packed event!

The best in OOTD. The Instagram-worthy photos! Yes, Koreans have also inspired the way Filipinos dress. In every boutique shop, Korean outfits are being offered, and even in online selling platforms such as Lazada and Shopee, people can easily find the Korean outfit they would like to wear. Clothes that are Korean-inspired are being used not just by ordinary people but also Filipino celebrities as well. Truly, it is a fad, especially with millennials and GenZs.

Fast learners. “Annyeonghaseyo!” A famous greeting from Korea. Filipino people are starting to learn the Korean language, especially considering the amount of Kdramas they watch. The way Koreans talk and how they deliver their words are being imitated by a lot of die-hard Korean lovers. Filipinos are fond of learning this language because it is a trend and they would know this language ahead of time. 

Skincare is life. Korean skin care is all over the market, and Filipinos patronize these products because they are said to be effective in having that perfect skin goal and glass-skin effect. Korean models are indeed beautiful, starting with their skin and much more with their faces; that is why some dream of having that kind of skin and face. People tend to buy expensive products just to achieve that Korean look.

What an abundant culture, traditions, and customs does Korea possess. Starting with their cuisines, the entertainment they offer, their lifestyles, how rich their history is, the place itself, and so much more. However, Filipinos must never forget the culture that they have and be proud of having a rich heritage that foreign people would want to see. Whether it is Korean or Filipino culture, these are both magnificent when it comes to their values and beliefs — Saranghaeyo, Philippines; Mahal kita, Korea!

LAYOUT BY: Cristine Joie Q. Bacud

PHOTO SOURCE(S): SM Ent-Pinterest