Korean celebrities’ balancing act in staying authentic while going global has been a very difficult task with Korean entertainment going global. We highlight three of the top Korean celebrities who have managed to do this!
It is no secret that the Korean entertainment industry has created a much sought after paradox, and the cultural influence that it has had on global audiences is very clear in many countries, and as a result Hallyu's global expansion has lured and captured new audiences.
Even with millions of followers and sold out concerts, the stigma of staying relevant but also authentic to Korea is a challenge, though some celebrities have managed to keep it really despite their superstar status. We highlight three of the most trending K-entertainment celebrities that have tackled this issue and stayed true to their roots!
BTS RM
BTS's RM, for instance, is the group's leader and main English speaker. With all that pressure, he has managed to navigate his personal persona while bridging cultural gaps. His famous UN speech and VLive sessions demonstrate how he has remained genuine despite global pressure.
BLAKCPINK's Lisa
Lisa represents another interesting case, being a Thai member of a Korean girl group. She has had to learn quick how to balance multiple cultural identities right from the off set, and her authentic and easy going approach allows her to openly embrace both cultures, for example coming from Thailand she is very enthusiastic about food and mango sticky rice which is a Thai staple. The way that she is open about her personal life on social media has allowed her to stay relevant and embrace a global culture as well as showing off her routes at the same time.
Lee Jung Jae
Most likely you will know Lee Jung Jae from Squid Game series, and this actor demonstrates another successful career, despite challenges. He has showed has he can embrace global fame without abandoning his deep local and traditional Korean route. He has even won an Emmy for being the first Asian Lead Actor to win in a drama, and he kept his speech short and sweet ending it with a few words in Korean. He did later joke about how he had to practice and learn the English lines ahead of making a speech at the event.
Despite many Hollywood opportunities he has continued to accept different types of Korean roles, lending his talent to Korean films and he has even directed a film called Hunt. What opportunities will he have in the future to promote Korea?
Our Thoughts
Although the perfect Korean celebrity image can change depending on the celebrities interactions, and careers, it is true that adapting to a global identity, and finding organic ways to express both tradition and open-mindedness is key, in addition to maintaining a tricky balance.
How is staying authentic important to you? Let us know in the comments below.
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