Asia’s soft power battle - has the Korean Wave peaked?

Japan gave us Hello Kitty and Pokémon. China is making waves with micro-dramas and cutting-edge tech. But it’s South Korea that is currently the region’s reigning cultural superpower. From KPop Demon Hunters and Squid Game to BTS and Blackpink, the Korean Wave seems unstoppable. And with its Oscar-winning films and Nobel Prize-winning literature, its influence is global. But how much further can it go? Are other countries in the region catching up? Join Asia Specific host Mariko Oi in Singapore, Seoul correspondent Jake Kwon and BBC journalist Fan Wang as they discuss whether Korea’s soft power has already peaked.Asia Specific brings you essential insights and conversations on the stories shaping the Asia Pacific region - unpacked by those who know them best. Expect Asian perspectives on international issues and in-depth analysis on news from a region that’s home to nearly 2.5 billion people - an economic powerhouse, geo-political flashpoint, and the birthplace of global cultural trends. Whether it is the latest on trade between China and Donald Trump, the rise and fall of political dynasties in Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, or South Korea’s K-pop inspired soft power strategy, we unpack what key players are thinking and dive into the stories that matter. Hosted in Singapore by Mariko Oi alongside BBC experts in Beijing, Bangkok, and beyond – listen to new episodes every Wednesday and Saturday. Get in touch: [email protected]