Global Cultural Integration Strategies of Korean Entertainment Companies Regarding the Idol Culture Industry: The Case of SM Entertainment

Abstract

The study focuses on the global cultural integration of Korean entertainment companies regarding the idol culture industry, using SM Entertainment as a case study for in-depth analysis. Idol culture, as a part of Korean pop culture, has achieved great success globally over the past decades. With the rise of digital media, the trend of internationalization in the entertainment industry has become more pronounced. The acceptance of different cultures by audiences in different countries has also become one of the focal points of research. This study will focus on SM Entertainment's successful practices in overseas markets such as Asia, with a special focus on how it has integrated the Korean Wave culture to satisfy the aesthetic and cultural needs of audiences in different countries and regions in order to increase its acceptability in the international market. The company's strategies in terms of artist image, music style, and promotional techniques are examined in depth. Ultimately, this study provides insights into SM Entertainment's success in achieving cultural integration and adapting to multicultural demands, which is important for understanding global cultural communication, the internationalization of the entertainment industry, and the dissemination of local culture in the international market.