What is the relation between culture and globalization?Zhang Wenfei

Culture and globalization are closely intertwined, shaping and influencing one another. Globalization refers to the flow and exchange of goods, information, technology, capital, and human activities across borders, while culture embodies the values, beliefs, language, art, and lifestyles of a society. With the advancement of globalization, the transmission of cultures has accelerated, but it has also faced challenges of homogenization and fusion. This article explores the relationship between culture and globalization, using China and Korea as examples.

Globalization has facilitated the exchange of cultures through technology, trade, and media. In Korea, the rise of the *Hallyu* (Korean Wave) is a successful example of cultural dissemination through globalization. Through cultural products such as K-pop, Korean dramas, and Korean cuisine, Korea has not only enhanced its cultural influence worldwide but also turned the Korean Wave into a vital part of its national economy. For instance, the global popularity of the Korean drama *Squid Game* on streaming platforms has introduced Korean society and culture to audiences worldwide.

China has also actively promoted its culture in the process of globalization. In recent years, learning Chinese and experiencing Chinese culture have gained popularity globally. Through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative, China has spread traditional culture, such as Peking opera, Chinese medicine, and calligraphy, to various parts of the world. Additionally, Chinese martial arts, wuxia films, and cuisine have become essential gateways for foreigners to understand China.  

While globalization facilitates cultural exchange, it also poses challenges to local cultures.  

In China, the widespread influence of foreign cultures has, at times, caused younger generations to lose interest in traditional practices such as Hanfu (traditional Chinese clothing) or traditional festivals. Instead, they have shown a growing preference for Western holidays like Christmas and Halloween. In response, China has sought to address cultural homogenization through initiatives like the “Hanfu Revival Movement” and efforts to preserve intangible cultural heritage, rekindling interest in Chinese traditions.

Korea faces similar challenges from foreign cultural influences. The popularity of Western fast food initially caused traditional Korean dishes like kimchi and bibimbap to lose appeal among younger generations. To preserve its culinary culture, the Korean government has promoted healthy eating and the internationalization of Korean cuisine. For example, kimchi was successfully listed as an intangible cultural heritage item and has been widely marketed as a global health food.  

Culture not only benefits from globalization but also shapes its course. In China, international brands entering the Chinese market often adapt to local cultural preferences. For example, Starbucks offers drinks like matcha lattes tailored to Chinese tastes, while KFC serves Chinese-style breakfast items such as youtiao (fried dough sticks) and soybean milk.  

Similarly, Korea has actively exported its cultural identity through the *Hallyu* wave. Korean beauty brands, for instance, not only promote products globally but also introduce “Korean skincare culture,” influencing consumer habits worldwide. These cultural exports have not only shifted global market preferences but also fostered greater acceptance and respect for Chinese and Korean cultures internationally.  

Globalization creates opportunities for cultural innovation by fostering the fusion of different cultural elements. For instance, co-productions between China and Korea are becoming increasingly common in the film and television industry. By combining Chinese historical narratives with Korea’s advanced production techniques, high-quality works have been created. Recent joint productions, such as *The Wasted Times* and *The Imperial Age*, have gained positive reception in international markets.  

Additionally, Korean street food (e.g., hot dogs, pancakes) and Chinese snacks (e.g., dumplings, buns) have undergone adaptations through globalization, evolving into fusion foods that incorporate elements of both cultures and enjoy growing popularity in international markets.  

The relationship between culture and globalization presents both opportunities and challenges. Globalization has enabled the global dissemination of Chinese and Korean cultures, but it has also brought risks of cultural homogenization and marginalization of traditional practices. Through active preservation and innovation, both countries have achieved cultural revival and global outreach amidst the tide of globalization. Moving forward, how to maintain local cultural uniqueness while fostering cultural diversity and innovation will be a critical task for China, Korea, and the world as a whole.