[LETTERS to the editor]It takes quality to keep the wave going

It is critical to consider the need for diversity in the hallyu, or Korean pop culture wave. Korean films and TV dramas until recently only offered stories about love, romantic comedies or melodramas. In this sense, I believe the recent Korean hit film “The King and the Clown” paved a new way.
The film has been well-reviewed for its sophisticated story, where its poignant sarcasm about society enables the audience to reflect upon the current society. The film is neither a blockbuster nor about love, but it is a great pleasure to watch! The film does not even star any actors who were famous inside Korea, let alone outside Korea. In other words, the film works because of the quality of the story, the acting abilities of the whole cast, and the beautiful images and sound.
Hallyu is not about relying on a few Korean actors and actresses who are popular in a few countries in Asia, nor is it about relying on Korean pop culture as a fad. If so, Hallyu would not continue to grow.
For hallyu to develop further, more films like “The King and The Clown”need to be produced and introduced for audiences outside of Korea to enjoy.

by Corinne Lee