Steve Smith
December 19, 2025
South Korea is launching a special visa for K-pop lovers
This video is part of: Centre for Regions, Trade and Geopolitics
It’s called the Hallyu visa. Hallyu translates as ‘Korean wave’ and is used to describe the global popularity of Korean culture, or K-culture. Watch to learn more.
The Korean Wave, known as Hallyu, has swept the globe, captivating audiences with K-pop beats and K-drama plots. Now, South Korea aims to turn this cultural enthusiasm into an experiential opportunity with the Hallyu visa. This unique visa program invites international K-culture fans to immerse themselves in the heart of the scene, offering a chance to live the K-dream firsthand.
Beyond sightseeing with the Hallyu Visa
Tourists cite K-pop as their top reason for visiting South Korea. Outweighing the next most popular - Korean food - by a factor of 2.6. South Korea’s tourism industry is a key driver of economic growth. The Hallyu visa is for foreigners who want to take part in K culture themselves.
Watch to learn more about the Hally Visa.
Forum Stories newsletter
Bringing you weekly curated insights and analysis on the global issues that matter.
More on Industries in DepthSee all
More on Industries in Depth
See all
