Group 1: Core Insights - Korean culture is experiencing structural growth potential through global expansion and the potential lifting of the "Korean Wave Ban" in China [1][2] - The Global X K-Pop and Culture ETF (03158) provides an efficient way for investors to participate in the rise of Korean culture, covering high-growth sectors such as entertainment, beauty, and food [1] - The ETF has achieved a year-to-date return of 42% as of June, outperforming the KOSPI index's 28% return, driven by the resilience of the K-Pop industry and optimistic expectations regarding the reopening of the Chinese market [1] Group 2: Market Dynamics - The core appeal of the K-Pop entertainment industry lies in its potential benefits from the lifting of the "Korean Wave Ban" in China, with positive signals emerging since early this year [2] - Major developments include Tencent Music acquiring approximately 10% of SM Entertainment, establishing a partnership that could enhance revenue sources through concerts and immersive fan experiences [2] - The K-Pop industry exhibits unique defensive characteristics, with core revenues derived from live events, digital streaming, and merchandise, which are less affected by trade tariffs [2] Group 3: Industry Outlook - The return of top artists like BTS and Blackpink is expected to significantly boost market performance, with BTS planning a new album release in late 2025 and a tour in 2026 [3] - The Global X K-Pop and Culture ETF holds approximately 40% of its portfolio in four major K-Pop companies: HYBE, SM, JYP, and YG, which are believed to best capture the K-Pop trend [3] Group 4: Growth in Related Sectors - The global popularity of K-Pop is also driving growth in the Korean beauty and food industries, with cosmetic exports showing significant growth since 2023 [4] - Korean cosmetics exports are projected to grow by 15.4% year-on-year by Q2 2025, with strong growth in Europe and emerging markets [4] - In the food sector, Korean ramen is one of the fastest-growing export categories, with a compound annual growth rate of 30% from 2022 to 2024, prompting companies to increase overseas production capacity [4]