Buddhist rites and packed museums: South Korea is celebrating K-pop Demon Hunters
Artist Recognition
During Buddhist rituals, singers such as Jungkook, surrogates for the demon hunters, are depicted as peaceful, powerful, and benevolent. The album releases and global tours of these musical groups bring huge economic benefits and promote the country as a tourist destination. The members of BTS, for example, are becoming more and more like Buddhist saints.
Impact on Korean Culture
The K-pop genre as a whole has also gained worldwide recognition, with bands like BTS, Girls Generation, and Red Velvet reaching international success. The genre has reinvented Asian representation in global popular culture, and in turn, has encouraged young Koreans to embrace their national identity.
fandom
The bands' fans, often dubbed as fandom, take on a significant devotion to the music and the members. The intensity of this fan dedication can be compared to a religious-like experience, with followers donning merchandise, attending world tours, and engaging in online communities.
