K-Pop in Japan
Photo via Allkpop
K-Pop in particular have had a hard time penetrating the Japanese media. It was not until 2010 when groups like Kara and Girl’s Generation started hitting the Japanese airwaves with the catchy tunes.
There are claims that the only reason Japan is embracing the TWICE is because of its Japanese member which in a way, shows some sort of Nationalism. Whether this is the case or not, the attention is making good PR for the all-girl group.
This issue has been attributed to Japan and Korea’s strained history. Hallyu, or the “Korean wave,” angered some Japanese, leading to protests against Fuji TV for airing too many Korean dramas. This pushed Korean Pop culture to be a lot absent in the airwaves for year. Despite being absent from TV, K-pop thrived in Japan. Evidenced by strong sales and packed crowds for events such as KCon, which TWICE played in 2016.
Photo via Allkpop
At its worst, coverage of Twice has taken on a nationalistic tone. NHK News ran a feature about the group several weeks back, centered on how it is mending relations between the two countries.
There is so much to love about K-Pop. The music, the moves and their fashion. And you now have a chance to look like your favorite K-Pop artist!
