The exhibition provides an in-depth look at the profound impact, influence and growth of the K-pop movement, deepening our understanding of the medium as both a nationally specific form of entertainment and a global, hyper-capitalist industry entwined with alternative youth cultures. Each area of the exhibition explores an integral facet of the K-pop marvel, from unique fan practices and international reach, to queer aesthetics and the exponential rise of super-group BTS. A wide range of exciting K-pop merchandise is also displayed throughout the exhibition, including coveted collectibles, official fandom memorabilia and limited edition albums.
This creative project marks an exciting collaboration between staff and students from the School of East Asian Studies, with instrumental support from The Centre for Korean Studies, the University's own Western Bank Library, and the National Library of Korea. The team would not be complete without Emily Durant and Mark Huskinson-Smith, two of our very own undergraduate students, who both significantly contributed to the exhibition content. Emily and Mark are currently in South Korea to complete their Year Abroad.
The exhibition has already received a highly positive response, and we look forward to welcoming visitors from both the wider university and the public. More information, including a fully digitised and expanded version of the exhibition content, can be found on this official website.