This volume offers an in-depth examination of Hallyu (the Korean Wave), foregrounding its significance as a critical site for cultural, theoretical, and decolonial inquiry. With the emergence of globally recognized phenomena such as BTS and Squid Game, Hallyu has transitioned from a fan-based subculture in Asia to a global cultural phenomenon. This transformation necessitates a reevaluation of the phenomenon and its significance.
The volume is divided into three main parts—historicizing, theorizing, and decolonizing—each offering distinct yet interconnected approaches to interpreting Hallyu. By bringing together historical analysis, theoretical innovation, and decolonial critique, this volume demonstrates that Hallyu is a dynamic framework for understanding the shifting dynamics of global culture in the twenty-first century.