Blog 2: What is the relation between culture and globalization? HONG JIARAN

The relationship between culture and globalization is deeply intertwined, with both influencing and shaping each other. Globalization has facilitated the rapid exchange of economies, technologies, and information, while simultaneously enabling unprecedented contact, dissemination, and integration of cultures. This process has accelerated cultural exchanges and interactions, spreading diverse traditions and practices across borders. As a result, we observe unique cultural fusions and, at times, trends of cultural convergence. However, the impact of globalization on culture is not a one-way process; culture itself plays an active role in shaping the dynamics of globalization through its creativity and adaptability.

One of the most visible effects of globalization is the dissemination of culture. Advances in modern technology and transportation have made the world feel smaller, significantly reducing barriers to cultural exchange. The internet, social media, and global entertainment industries, such as international films, music, and television, have become powerful tools for spreading cultural products. For instance, pop music, Hollywood films, and Japanese anime have captivated audiences worldwide, serving as prime examples of cultural globalization. This exchange has led to a certain level of cultural convergence, as lifestyles and habits across different regions begin to resemble one another. From fashion choices to musical preferences, globalization has made the world more interconnected, even influencing dietary practices and leisure activities.

However, culture is far from passive in this process. Globalization has also fostered cultural hybridization, where distinct traditions merge to create new, unique forms of expression. For instance, the Korean Wave (Hallyu) seamlessly blends traditional Korean elements with Western aesthetics, resulting in a globally admired style. Many countries actively adapt foreign cultural influences by incorporating local traditions, thereby preserving their own heritage while embracing change. This interplay between globalization and cultural preservation creates a vibrant and diverse cultural landscape, where homogeneity and heterogeneity coexist.

As an international student, the impact of cultural globalization is not an abstract concept but a personal and lived experience. Studying abroad offers not only academic opportunities but also profound cultural immersion. Engaging with people from different backgrounds has allowed me to directly experience cross-cultural communication. In classrooms filled with students and professors from various countries, discussions provide a platform to broaden my academic perspective while deepening my understanding of other cultures. These interactions highlight how culture is dynamic, constantly evolving through exchanges and integrations. The habits, ideas, and perspectives I’ve gained from my peers have enriched my worldview and made me more aware of the ongoing cultural transformations shaped by globalization.

Moreover, studying abroad has deepened my awareness of cultural identity. In a globalized world, international students like myself must adapt to a new culture while retaining a sense of our own heritage. This dual cultural identity fosters a greater appreciation for my own culture while encouraging me to respect and understand others. In multicultural university settings, cultural diversity is celebrated as a valuable resource. Such environments inspire openness and mutual respect, allowing students to adapt to new ways of life while sharing their own cultural practices, ultimately creating a positive cycle of cross-cultural exchange.

Nevertheless, cultural globalization also presents significant challenges. While it enriches our lives with diverse cultural experiences, it can threaten the preservation of local traditions. Dominant global cultures often overshadow smaller or traditional ones, leading to the gradual erosion of unique languages, customs, and skills. For example, some traditional practices are at risk of disappearing entirely in the face of foreign influences. As participants in globalization, we bear the responsibility not only to embrace multiculturalism but also to safeguard and promote our own cultural heritage. Striking a balance between preserving local traditions and adapting to global trends is crucial to fostering a sustainable and inclusive cultural globalization process.

In conclusion, the relationship between culture and globalization is both interdependent and mutually transformative. Globalization facilitates the exchange and integration of cultures, creating opportunities for cross-cultural interaction and innovation. As an international student, my personal experiences have given me a deeper understanding of this dynamic interplay, highlighting both the benefits and challenges of cultural globalization. Ultimately, globalization is not just about embracing diversity but also about respecting and protecting it. By maintaining this balance, we can ensure that cultural globalization becomes a process of growth, inclusivity, and mutual enrichment.