美媒：征服海外，韩流开始“去K化”

Core Insights - K-pop is expected to have significant growth potential in the global music market, projected to reach nearly $200 billion in the next decade, indicating that it does not need to worry about losing its essence while expanding globally [1][2] - The collaboration between Warner Bros. Discovery and CJ ENM for a long-term K-drama project exemplifies the sustained international interest in Korean entertainment content [1] - The Korean Wave, or "Hallyu," has evolved from a local phenomenon in the 1990s to a global cultural force, with significant contributions from K-dramas and K-pop artists [1][2] Industry Trends - The Korean entertainment industry has shifted towards a global audience, with many companies targeting the potential 8 billion viewers worldwide rather than just the domestic market of 50 million [2] - K-pop has become a leader in globalization, with the largest fan bases outside of Korea located in Indonesia, the United States, and the Philippines, highlighting the international appeal of the genre [2] - Korea has become the fourth country to achieve a music export surplus, joining the ranks of the US, UK, and Sweden, indicating a strong global presence in the music industry [2] Content Creation - Recent analyses show that nearly half of K-pop songs now feature English lyrics, reflecting a trend towards inclusivity and broader appeal in the genre [3] - The concept of "going K-less" proposed by HYBE's founder emphasizes the need for K-pop to adapt to international markets while maintaining its unique style and rigorous training systems for artists [3] - Future content creation in film and music is expected to involve diverse backgrounds, as seen in projects like "K-POP: The Witch Girl Group," which blends Korean elements with Western storytelling [3]