PASI5250 K-pop as a Global Phenomenon (2 cr)
Cooperation network course
Network: Finnish University Network for Asian Studies
Available for: Doctoral studies, Master's students, Bachelor's students and Bachelor's and Master's students
This course is offered through the Network for Asianet. These studies are available for bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree students studying in the University of Jyväskylä.
Grading scale:
Pass - fail
Description
This course offers a comprehensive examination of K-pop as a global cultural, economic, and political phenomenon. Open to all learners and available on a rolling basis until the end of 2028, it introduces key concepts, theoretical frameworks, and contemporary debates surrounding the Korean Wave (Hallyu). Particular attention is given to the historical emergence of K-pop, its evolving definitions, and the mechanisms underpinning its global diffusion.
Drawing on Professor Jimmyn Parc’s monograph The Identity and Emergence of K-Pop (Bloomsbury, 2025), the course combines scholarly insight with accessible learning materials. Upon successful completion of all assignments and assessments, participants will receive a digitally verifiable certificate.
The course content is organized into five modules that move from foundational concepts to contemporary debates and future outlooks.
1: Introduction
2: The Development of K-pop
3: Global K-pop
4: Operating Environment
5: The Stars and Beyond
Learning outcomes
By the end of the course, students will have developed a critical understanding of K-pop as both a cultural form and a global industry. They will be able to situate K-pop within the broader context of Hallyu and transnational cultural flows, while analysing how it is produced, circulated, and received across diverse contexts. Students will also evaluate competing definitions and historical trajectories of K-pop and engage critically with key concepts such as hybridity, imitation, and cultural exchange. In addition, they will examine the role of fandom, digital platforms, and global networks in shaping K-pop’s worldwide dissemination. The course further enables students to assess the institutional and regulatory frameworks that structure the industry, including government policy, corporate actors, and copyright regimes, and to reflect on labour conditions, artist experiences, and future developments within the field.
Additional information
REGISTRATION
Students from the University of Turku, and the other member universities of the Finnish University Network for Asian Studies can register for this course through the Peppi or Sisu systems. This course is on-going until the end of the 2028. In the study system, please enroll in the course period during which you intend to complete the course. Credits will be registered after the end of each course period.
STARTING THE COURSE
You may begin the course independently at any time – no separate invitation from the teacher is required.
To access the course site, go to https://digicampus.fi and search for the course by name. Log in using Haka Login and the username provided by your university. No course password is required.
The course is offered through the Finnish University Network for Asian Studies https://asianet.fi/.