Ghaziabad Tragedy Highlights India's Intense Korean Culture Craze

The intense immersion in Korean culture across India, particularly among younger demographics, has become a significant societal trend. Data reveals a substantial increase in searches for 'Korean' between 2020 and 2022, coinciding with the global popularity of K-dramas like "Crash Landing on You" and "Squid Game."

This cultural wave extended beyond television, with Korean slang terms such as "Oppa" and "Saranghae" gaining widespread traction. The influence is now evident in various aspects of Indian life, including skincare, food, and fashion.

Initially driven by curiosity, the COVID-19 pandemic acted as a watershed moment, accelerating this cultural adoption. What was once confined to specific regions and urban groups has now become a nationwide "craze," fueled by global K-pop sensations like BTS and BLACKPINK.

Post-pandemic, while specific search volumes for K-dramas have slightly decreased from their peak, the overall interest in the broader keyword 'Korean' remains sustained. This indicates a lasting integration of Korean cultural elements into the Indian mainstream.

This cultural integration is further highlighted by the adoption of Korean food items and even commercial adaptations by major brands. The pervasive influence suggests that for millions, Korean culture offers comfort, escape, and aspiration, prompting a re-evaluation of the line between fantasy and reality.