There is no better window into a particular culture than its entertainment, and there is no better window into popular culture than television programming and movies. Films and TV shows reflect the popular culture, such as taste in music and fashion, as well as popular expressions. Popular culture also feeds off the references in popular films and TV shows.
Whether you are a Korean who wants to experience a taste of home or you are someone who is interested in Korean culture, watching Korean TV shows and films can fill that need. Yet since there is not a huge Korean population in the United States, you won't find much programming on mainstream TV the way you would Spanish programming.
Here are a few easy ways you can get Korean programming at home:
Sign Up for Direct TV
Direct TV provides hundreds of channels that cater to just about every interest and genre. Multiple channels are available in different languages and that feature programming from other countries, including Korea. You can turn on your TV at any time and see some of the most popular game shows, sitcoms, movies and more.
Whether you are looking for Direct TV in Texas or any other state, you can find great deals on the programming you want. You'll get access to Korean programming, as well as some of your favorite American television shows and movies.
Add a Streaming Service
More and more streaming services are becoming available to watch television and movies, such as Netflix, Amazon, and Hulu. For just a few dollars a month, you can watch thousands of movies and shows at any time you want on your computer or television (though you'll need a smart TV or a streaming device to cast the programming over the Internet onto your TV).
You are more likely to find Korean movies on these streaming sites than television shows, though each of these sites is continually adding new shows and movies to their selection. You can make your "vote" with the programming you choose to watch, and you can contact customer service about shows and films you would like to see added to the selection. With enough demand, their selection of Korean programming will grow.
Watch YouTube
YouTube is a powerful, free service for watching just about anything you want. You can watch Korean music videos all day from your favorite groups like The Wonder Girls, 2NE1 and Girls Generation. You can also watch selected television shows and movies, depending on what users have chosen to upload.
Your selections will be a bit limited because of copyright restrictions, but you can find some gems on the site. It is a useful supplement for what you're unable to watch through other services.
Watching Korean programming can make you feel like you are living in the country and experiencing what the locals do. Whether you are far away from home or are just interested in learning about a new culture, consider using these tips to watch your favorite Korean television shows, movies and music videos.
Written by Jane Brown
