Learning Korean using Online Platforms Following the Success of “Squid Game” and during Pandemic Times

Abstract

The consumption of Korean popular culture in Indonesia has always been increased since the early 2000s. In September 2021, the entire world was shocked by the South Korean entertainment industry with the appearance of the "Squid Game" Netflix mini series. South Korean language and culture is currently being globalized with the Korean wave, a term given when Korean pop culture has spread worldwide in various countries since the 1990s, such as films and music. The success of South Korean in exporting its culture can be immediately detected by the hike of interests in learning Korean. This study is particularly interested in examining the growing interest in learning Korean using online platforms, following a massive hit of the "Squid Game" in Indonesia. It also seeks to understand Indonesian young people's perceptions towards the Korean language.