Fans of K-Pop claim the music trend is becoming popular worldwide, and now there is a bit of evidence to help back up their claims. A new survey reveals that K-Pop is the most popular image among foreigners, albeit at the mention of Korea, reports Netizenbuzz.

The survey asked a total of 5,600 people from 14 different countries and their answers revealed that "K-Pop" was foremost in their minds when the topic of Korea was brought into conversation. "K-Pop" edged out other popular cultural markers such as "Korean cuisine" (2nd), dramas (4th) and movies (5th).

Not surprisingly, the third most popular image that popped into foreigners' minds about Korea, home of the fastest internet and Samsung Group, was "IT business."

"IT business" used to rank first in the previous survey, but it had been overtaken by "K-Pop."

But not all foreigners are as hopeful about the rising prominence of K-Pop worldwide, with 84.3% of Japanese respondents adamant that the Hallyu wave will dissipate in the next four years.

It should be noted though that several K-Pop acts are making it big in Japan. TVXQ, for example, recently dominated the Japan Golden Disc Awards, a major music awards based on music sales. The TVXQ duo, known as Tohoshinki in Japan, secured "Best Asian Artist" and "Best Album of the Year' for a total of five awards taken home last March 2. Girls' Generation, A Pink and VIXX are also popular in Japan, securing awards as well.

Do you think K-Pop is becoming a worldwide phenomenon? Or do you agree with the Japanese that it will soon lose steam?