The Evolution of the “K” Debate in Hallyu

This chapter seeks to develop a discourse on what constitutes Korean elements in the Korean Wave. Considering that the claim that Korean elements have disappeared from the Korean Wave is mainly attributed to hybridization, this chapter examines whether the Korean Wave has completely lost its Korean identity through hybridization. Next, it discusses whether K has been developed even within hybridization and explores how Korean Wave content has contributed to the development of Korean elements. In addition, it examines the implications of the debate regarding whether the Korean Wave encompasses cultural nationalism within Hallyu discussions. Through this discourse, the chapter discusses the importance of strategic thinking for Hallyu content to reach global audiences.