Korea Unpacked

South Korea’s Cultural Buzz: Top Trends of 2025 1. BTS Return Sparks New Wave for K-Pop After a two-year hiatus, BTS has reunited following completion of military service, igniting anticipation for fresh music, world tours, and renewed global interest in K-Pop. Their comeback is credited with potentially revitalizing South Korea's cultural exports, which hit $13.6 billion in 2024.( masxworld , Financial Times ) 2. “KPop Demon Hunters” Takes Netflix by Storm Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters , featuring a K-Pop girl group battling demons, has become the platform’s most-watched animated movie ever—amassing over 130 million views. Its vibrant animation and energetic soundtrack sparked fan tributes, viral dances, and even discussions of sequels and adaptations.( Daily Telegraph ) 3. ENHYPEN’s Game-Changing VR Concert ENHYPEN has raised the bar with an immersive VR concert experience that erases geographic limitations, offering fans around the world a wildly interactive and visually ...

K-Pop Demon Hunters: OST Rankings, Creators & Revenue Breakdown K‑Pop Demon Hunters: OST Rankings, Creators & Revenue Breakdown K‑Pop Demon Hunters — known to fans as “Kedehun” — has rapidly become one of Netflix’s biggest animated successes of 2025 . With a chart‑smashing soundtrack, a star‑studded production team, and record‑breaking global streaming numbers, this series is setting new standards for music‑driven animation . Below, we break down everything you need to know about its OST performance , creative team , voice cast , and revenue impact . 🎵 1. OST Chart Performance ⭐ “Golden” by HUNTR/X #1 on the UK Official Singles Chart — the first Korean track to top the UK chart in 13 years since Psy’s “Gangnam Style.” ( Official Charts ) #1 on Billboard Global 200 and Global Excl. US — proving worldwide appeal. ( Wikipedia ) Reached #6 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and #7 on Canada Hot 100 . Dominated the Spotify Global Chart and temp...

K-Pop Demon Hunters (Kedehun): How Netflix’s Animation Became a Global Phenomenon K‑Pop Demon Hunters (Kedehun): How Netflix’s Animation Became a Global Phenomenon The Netflix original animation K‑Pop Demon Hunters , affectionately called “Kedehun” by fans, is redefining what Korean content can achieve on the world stage. Blending K‑Pop energy, supernatural storytelling, and global appeal , this project has set new benchmarks for Hallyu content in 2025. Here’s a deep dive into Kedehun’s record‑breaking success and why it matters for Korean pop culture. 🌍 1. Record‑Breaking Success on the Global Stage The standout original soundtrack (OST) “GOLDEN” achieved a historic #1 spot on the UK Official Singles Chart Top 100 — the first Korean content to top the chart since Psy’s Gangnam Style 13 years ago. ( Korea Economic Daily ) The track saw a remarkable chart climb , surging back into popularity six weeks after its release and ultimately reaching #1 — a rare fea...

Best Korean Street Foods for First-Time Visitors No trip to Korea is complete without trying its street food . From spicy rice cakes to sweet pancakes, Korean street food is affordable, delicious, and a window into local culture. Here’s a guide to the best Korean street foods every first-time visitor should try . 1. Tteokbokki (떡볶이) The king of Korean street food! Tteokbokki is made with chewy rice cakes cooked in a spicy-sweet gochujang (red chili paste) sauce. Often served with fish cakes and boiled eggs, it’s comforting, affordable, and found at nearly every street food stall. 2. Hotteok (호떡) Craving something sweet? Try Hotteok , a Korean-style pancake filled with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts. It’s crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside – a must-have in winter markets. 3. Odeng (어묵) Also known as fish cake skewers , Odeng is a warm, savory snack served in a light broth. On cold days, you’ll see locals standing at carts, eating skewers and sipping the...

Top Korean Festivals to Experience in 2025 Korea is more than just K-pop, kimchi, and high-tech cities – it’s a country full of vibrant festivals that celebrate culture, food, music, and nature. If you’re visiting in 2025, timing your trip with one of these events can make your journey unforgettable. Here’s a list of the top Korean festivals you shouldn’t miss in 2025 . 1. Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival (진해 군항제) Every spring, the city of Jinhae in South Gyeongsang Province transforms into a pink wonderland. The Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival attracts millions of visitors each April with breathtaking cherry blossom views along the Yeojwacheon Stream and Gyeonghwa Station. It’s the perfect spot for photos and a romantic spring vibe. 2. Boryeong Mud Festival (보령 머드축제) One of Korea’s most famous and fun summer events, the Boryeong Mud Festival is held every July on Daecheon Beach. Visitors cover themselves in mineral-rich mud, join mud wrestling competitions, ride muds...

Korean Etiquette 101 – What Every Visitor Should Know Korea is one of the most exciting destinations in the world, blending tradition and modern life. But while Korea is highly modernized, local customs and etiquette are deeply rooted in tradition. Understanding these cultural rules will help you avoid awkward situations and leave a great impression on locals. Here’s a simple Korean Etiquette 101 guide for every visitor. 1. Always remove your shoes indoors In Korea, it’s a long-standing tradition to remove your shoes before entering a home . Many restaurants, traditional guesthouses (hanok), and even some temples also follow this rule. If you see a shoe rack by the door, it’s a clear sign: take off your shoes and wear provided slippers or socks. 2. Use both hands when giving or receiving items When handing over money, gifts, or even a business card, use both hands . It’s a gesture of respect, especially when interacting with older people or in formal settings. I...