The U.S. media has been hit with the 'hallyu' wave.

In past years, it has been a huge obstacle for Korean entertainment to make it to the U.S. However, with Psy and his global popularity, the wall has been broken down a bit. Actors Lee Byung Hun and Bae Doo Na have also been seen in U.S. movies lately as well. A researcher from the Korean Contents Hallyu Agency Research Institute points out a few things.

How big is the Hallyu in the U.S. Market?

In 2011, the hallyu exports were over 42 million dollars. With K-Pop and the Hallyu coming to the U.S., it is seen as a positive. It has also made the image of Korea much better. Now, instead of people thinking of South and North Korea being rivals, people think of K-Pop and the hallyu when they think of South Korea. Due to the positive image, many electronics, makeup and other products are selling better as well.

How to prevent the 'hallyu' from being a one-hit wonder?

In order for it to continue and expand, we need to create more content. In the case of Psy, he made it to global stardom without even thinking or planning ahead. Although planning and purposefully trying to market is good, it also a good idea to monitor the trends of the time and see when is good time to release new content.

How to expand the 'hallyu' to areas such as Latin America where K-Pop is lesser known?

The most important thing is to make a point of contact with the consumer. Collaborating with local distributers and companies is also important. Collaborating with these companies means that we both have the same thoughts and therefore it is easier to bring in the 'hallyu'.

The advantage of Korean pop culture?

The main point of K-pop is its performance, addictive performances and fashionable girls and boys. Many korean films and dramas center around the theme of love which is an international language around the world. Also, Korea's dynamic social relationships have enough appeal to western society as well.