politics
April 2, 2026
‘The US is no longer the go-to place’: How Korean culture is taking Latin America by storm
Everything Korean – from K-pop and skincare to food and clothing – is booming in popularity in Chile, Mexico and Brazil
TL;DR
- The 'Korean wave' (hallyu) is significantly impacting Latin America, with Korean culture permeating music, food, television, fashion, and skincare.
- Countries like Mexico, Colombia, and Brazil are experiencing a surge in Korean cultural influence, marked by popular YouTubers, K-pop fanbases, and Korean businesses.
- K-pop concerts are in high demand, with major tours planned across multiple Latin American cities, reflecting a strong fan following.
- Korean cultural elements, such as K-dramas and cuisine like soju and samgyeopsal, have become highly sought after, especially after gaining popularity during the pandemic.
- The increasing interest in Korean culture is seen by some as a potential indicator of shifting global cultural preferences, with some suggesting a decline in US cultural appeal.
- The article notes the historical context of Korean migration to Latin America, beginning in 1905, which has contributed to the current cultural landscape.
- There is a notable increase in young people learning the Korean language and pursuing Korean studies in Latin America.
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