Acceptance of Korean cultural products in Slovakia: Multiculturalism, recipients and metaverse

Abstract

Korean cultural products have indeed gained some presence in Slovak’s media, but it does not necessarily indicate a widespread shift in acceptance of different cultural products than those associated with Western cultures. The acceptance of Korean content by Slovak audiences is, among other things, influenced by various factors such as cultural affinity, multiculturalism, and technical-technological progress. Unlike other multicultural societies, Slovakia may not be naturally inclined to embrace diverse content. The study aims to showcase the possible changes within the acceptance of different cultures through multiculturalism and willingness of recipients to consume it. The paper also ponders over the potential role of the metaverse (virtual reality) in fostering greater cultural diversity acceptance. Moreover, it underscores the persistent language barrier, and the uncertainty of how virtual acceptance translates into real-world acceptance. In essence, the study raises question about the complex dynamics of cultural acceptance in Slovakia, where various factors interact to shape perceptions and attitudes towards foreign cultures, especially the Korean one.