South Korean cuisine and skincare routines have become popular worldwide, reflecting the growing global impact of Korean culture, including strong fan bases in the Philippines and beyond.
The popularity of South Korean culture continues to rise globally, particularly in the food and beauty sectors. Dishes like samgyeopsal and skincare routines originating from South Korea have found enthusiastic followings not only among Filipinos but also diverse international communities. Documentaries such as “Annyeonghaseyo, South Korea” highlight Korean influence, showcasing Korean towns like the largest one in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines, where authentic Korean restaurants, groceries, and wellness centers thrive.
Samgyeopsal, a beloved Korean grilled pork belly dish that dates back to the 1960s, has gained widespread popularity. Traditionally made from pork belly slices grilled on the table and wrapped in lettuce, it symbolizes Korean culture’s emphasis on communal dining and bonding. Originally, beef was the meat used, but economic shifts after the Korean War favored pork due to affordability.
The love for Korean cuisine extends globally, as cooking classes for iconic dishes like bibimbap attract foreigners eager to learn about Korean culinary art and traditions originating from simple post-war ingredients.
In beauty, South Korea is renowned as the world’s plastic surgery capital and is a leader in skincare quality and innovation. The K-beauty industry ranks third in global cosmetics exports. Events such as Beauty Play showcase emerging Korean beauty brands, aiming to boost small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and promote them internationally, including in the Philippines.
Korean skincare regimens have become integrated into daily routines of many Filipinos seeking the famed “glass skin” look. Industry leaders point to the high quality and effective ingredients of Korean cosmetics as key to their global success and strong reputation.
This expanding influence reflects deeper cultural appreciation and economic ties, exemplified by collaborations and growing markets that connect Korean SMEs with overseas consumers and enterprises.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/balitambayan/talakayan/978937/impluwensiya-ng-south-korea-sa-pagkain-at-beauty-industry-patuloy-ang-paglawak-sa-mundo/story/
