"Hallyu Wave" Phenomenon: The Impact of BTS and Squid Game on English Language Acquisition Among Thai Youth
Keywords:
Hallyu Wave, BTS, Squid Game, English learning, Thai youth, Language learning motivationAbstract
This academic article examines four key aspects of the Korean cultural wave's influence on English language learning among Thai youth. First, it studies the impact of the Hallyu Wave, particularly through BTS and Squid Game, on Thai youth's English learning behaviors and methodologies. Second, it analyzes the specific mechanisms and approaches through which Thai youth utilize content from BTS and Squid Game as tools for developing English proficiency in daily contexts. Third, it explores the role of entertainment media and digital technology in facilitating English acquisition through exposure to Korean cultural content. Fourth, it proposes guidelines for designing English language instruction that aligns with contemporary youth interests and learning behaviors.
The study reveals that access to Hallyu content via digital platforms such as YouTube, Netflix, and TikTok has created an effective informal language learning environment. Thai youth demonstrate high intrinsic motivation when engaging with content from their preferred artists and media, resulting in a significant shift from passive to active learning approaches. Clear examples of this behavioral transformation include: decoding English lyrics in BTS songs, comprehending English dialogues and subtitles in the Squid Game series, participating in collaborative subtitle translation projects, creating original English content, and enrolling in online English courses with Hallyu-related themes. These activities have enhanced youth vocabulary acquisition, particularly regarding idioms, colloquial expressions, and cultural references commonly used in everyday communication and popular culture, thereby making English more contextually relevant and engaging. Furthermore, the Hallyu Wave functions as a powerful catalyst for English language acquisition, driven by personal interest and participation in global fan communities.
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