Popular Culture

Countries promote their interests through different means. There is hard power, such as the use of military might to achieve a goal, and there is soft power. Popular culture is a prime example of soft power. South Korea and Japan both use soft power extensively to their benefit. K-pop, K-drama, and K-cosmetics are soft power means used by South Korea to enhance its image globally, with great success. Dr. Alon Levkowitz studies and teaches the influence of Korean soft power on the world, and Dr. Roni Sarig researches aspects of Japanese soft power and its portrayal in children’s literature, cinema, animation, and manga in Japan and beyond. Dr. Michal Zelcer-Lavid studies and teaches the influences of popular culture (mainly literature and poetry) on political and national positions in China. She brings examples from the Chinese cinema and culinary scene, deepening knowledge about the interconnection between culture, society, and politics.