Korean Pop Culture

Midterm

Modern Girls

a new generation of young urbanites during the late 1920’s and into the 1930’s who were mostly interested in fashion, style, and the latest trends in lifestyle.

Trot

traditional South Korean music genre, characterized by repetitive rhythms, emotional, often sentimental melodies, and lyrical themes of love, loss, and longing.

Mambo fever

the mambo craze that swept through South Korea following the Korean War, fueled by Western music, influencing popular culture, music, and fashion.

The 38th parallel

 the historical dividing line between North and South Korea, initially chosen in 1945 to separate the Soviet and U.S. zones of occupation after World War II.

The Yushin (or Yusin) Constitution

a severely authoritarian document that dramatically expanded the power of President Park Chung-hee, granting him virtually dictatorial powers, the ability to rule by decree, and unlimited terms in office/

Marijuana Scandal

high-profile prosecution of several K-pop artists for recreational marijuana use, including Big Bang's T.O.P. and singer-songwriter Psy, and the broader societal backlash and impact on their careers

3Ss

the K-pop girl group tripleS. The name stands for "Social, Sonyo (meaning girl), Seoul"

The 8th Army Shows

 public performances by the Eighth Army Band, which is the only U.S. military band in Korea and performs 240 times a year to support U.S. and ROK military events and strengthen the alliance.

Chaebols (conglomerates)

large, family-controlled conglomerates that operate across diverse industries and dominate the nation's economy, with major examples including Samsung, Hyundai, and LG

 Seonjinguk (“advanced country”)

 a dominant discourse and national goal centered on achieving "advanced country" or "developed country" status

AFKN

American Forces Korea Network: This was the military broadcasting service for U.S. troops in South Korea.

Orange Folks/ Generation X

Born in the 70’s but were not as interested in political activism as the 386 generation. They were more exposed to foreign cultural trends through foreign travel and media.

The IMF Crisis

a severe financial downturn in late 1997 when the country faced bankruptcy changing the previous life-long employment system

386 Generation

 those who were in college in the 80s and experienced Korea's student activism. This term was popularized in the 90s when this generation was in their 30s and were playing bigger roles in society.

Seo Taiji and Boys

debuted in 1992 and disbanded in 1996 and completely transformed Korean pop music. There were 3 members.