The global success of South Korean media, from K-pop to K-dramas and digital platforms, is a defining phenomenon in today\u2019s media landscape. Known as Hallyu<\/strong> or the Korean Wave, this cultural movement challenges Western-dominated narratives and reflects the emergence of a more multipolar media world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While there has been a surge in research under the umbrella of Korean Wave Studies, much of it continues to rely on Western-centric theoretical models. The upcoming special issue<\/strong> aims to shift the discourse by encouraging theoretical contributions that prioritize local contexts<\/strong>, without completely discarding Western academic traditions. The goal is to create multipolar centers of knowledge production<\/strong> that enrich the global academic community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The popularity of Korean media has sparked global interest in cultural diversity and counter-narratives to Western modernity. However, many existing studies still interpret Korean media through frameworks such as post-colonial desire, hybridity, or self-Orientalism<\/strong>\u2014concepts grounded in Western academia. These theories may not fully reflect Korea’s unique post-colonial condition, which involves complex dynamics with Japan and the United States, rather than direct colonization by Western powers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n South Korea\u2019s media success is inseparable from its new media strategies<\/strong>. From digital games and webtoons to interactive K-pop platforms, Korean cultural industries are reshaping global media economies. This rise is often fueled by global fan participation<\/strong>, giving rise to social and political questions about affective labor, fandom culture<\/strong>, and digital activism<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Scholars are invited to contribute theoretical insights on a wide range of topics, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Interested scholars should submit their manuscripts (max. 7500 words) by December 30, 2025<\/strong>. Submissions must follow the journal’s official guidelines and include the title of the special issue in the cover letter. This special issue does not require any author payment<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nRethinking Theory: Moving Beyond Western Frameworks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nWhy De-Westernization Matters in Hallyu Studies<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nThe Role of New Media in Global Hallyu<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nThemes and Topics for Submission<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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\n\n\n\nSubmission Guidelines and Deadline<\/h3>\n\n\n\n