As an Honorary Reporter since 2019, I have witnessed the Hallyu wave's exponential growth, especially in 2024. This year has been a remarkable success for creatives and Hallyu artists alike, with numerous events and activities showcasing the best of Korean culture.
In this article, let me share some of the events that I attended and enjoyed:
Participating in the K-Comics World Tour and Meeting Cho Hye-seung
Storytellers always seek inspiration and role models, and the visit of Cho Hye-seung, head of Creative SUMM and renowned webtoonist, was very memorable. The Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines and the Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA), held an exhibit for her work, The Red Sleeve. During the media forum last June 20, I asked her about her favorite character and its inspiration. Cho Hye-seung shared, "My favorite character at this point is Jeongjo. Everyone has an instinct for wanting a comfortable life, to be beside the people they love. But he thought very deeply about [the circumstances, asking himself], 'Can I do this?' and 'Can I make this action towards the person?'" and of her work, as well as the hit webtoon and drama What's Wrong with Secretary Kim, enjoyed the immersive exhibit at the Groundspace Gallery of the Metropolitan Museum of Manila until August 10.
Watching the girl group, UNIS, perform live
Korea’s influence in music has been unmatched and some agencies have diversified their roster by including international artists. UNIS, a group featuring Filipinas, performed in the Philippines on October 25, at the New Frontier Theater. Their concert was a memorable experience for fans and artists alike, with audiences of all ages singing along to hits like SUPERWOMAN, Dopamine, and Curious. A special moment was their performance of BINI’s hit song, Pantropiko. Seeing Filipinas Elisia Parmisano and Gehlee Dangca, along with Filipino-Korean Jin Hyeon Ju, on stage was a highlight. A portion of the profits of their show, UNIS in CURIOUSland was donated to the victims of severe tropical storm Kristine.
Cooking Korean and Filipino Snacks with Chef Lily Min and Chef Reggie Aspiras
Held last July 31 at the Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines in Taguig City, Merienda: Phil-Kor Culinary Heritage Exchange was an afternoon filled with comforting food and warm conversations. Guided by live demonstrations, we made rice cakes and enjoyed a feast of Korean and Filipino desserts and drinks. I can still taste Chef Reggie’s Korean-inspired stuffed palitaw balls, where she skillfully incorporated seaweed flakes and sesame seeds in the classic Filipino treat. Chef Min also taught us how to wrap the rice cakes we made and place them in traditional Korean gift boxes. We all received an injeolmi kit, the rice cakes we made, the recipes, an apron inspired by Hanbok, and a signed copy of their K-Drama Cookbook.
Learning about Korean Skincare through Carenology launch
The Korean beauty industry, a billion-dollar market, is renowned for its effective products. Amidst numerous skincare options in the Philippines, beauty enthusiasts seek products with proven results. During the launch of Carenology in the Philippines, Dianne Gonzales, Director of MMG Enterprises, the official distributor, stated, "We decided to bring Carenology to the Philippines because of its quality and proven effectiveness. Carenology prioritizes natural ingredients and cutting-edge technology, aligning with the needs of Filipinos seeking quality Korean skincare solutions." With Korea's premier dermatologist, Dr. Lim Ee Seok, as its creator, this brand is set to enhance Filipinos' trust in Korean products.
Meeting novelist Sang Young Park, author of Love in the Big City
Last September 14, the creator of the hit book, Love in the Big City attended the Manila International Book Fair. Two days prior, I had the privilege of meeting him at an exclusive press conference, organized with the help of the Korean Cultural Center. During the interview, I asked, “What do you hope the readers will take away from the experiences of your characters? With the help of an interpreter, he shares, “I hope that the readers will realize what is true love. So for example, we have the character Jaehee which represents friendship, a powerful form of love in one’s life.” It was an unforgettable experience – learning about his creative process, and his upcoming projects, and leaving with a signed copy of his hit book.
As we welcome 2025, I am anticipating more experiences that promote Hallyu. While some argue that supporting Korean entertainment and products could negatively impact one’s own culture, it's important to consider the jobs created by the Korean wave. Additionally, there are intangible benefits: the inspiration it brings to creatives like me, and the smiles and sense of interconnectedness that both Korea and the rest of us experience after each activity.
How about this article?
- Like0
- Support0
- Amazing0
- Sad0
- Curious0
- Insightful0
