Local Buzz, Global Pipelines and Hallyu: The Case of the Film and TV Industry in South Korea

Abstract

While the local buzz and global pipeline approach has provided a useful platform for understanding knowledge creation and diffusion in the creative industries, little attention has been paid to the complex dynamics of knowledge flows through time and space. This article examines how the dynamics of local buzz and global pipelines supported Hallyu (translated into English as the ‘Korean Wave’, which refers to the increased popularity of South Korean cultural goods outside of Korea) by analysing the Korean film and TV industry. It is argued that changes in extra-local knowledge linkages offer opportunities for the expansion of the industry, both in domestic and international markets. The main findings indicate that not only did the dynamics of local buzz and global pipelines reconfigure Hallyu but also public support policies, private sector’s exertion and increased demand in the global market promoted Hallyu.