The city of Seoul, South Korea, is now saturated with Japanese “otaku culture.” Underground idols and butler cafes have appeared, and it is said to have become “Akiba-like,” but behind this lies a change in Korean society.

Reporter
“I heard Japanese songs at a live music venue near Hongdae in Seoul.”

Korean underground idols sing in fluent Japanese. Fans shout out in Japanese and perform the so-called “Otagei” dance moves such as “two steps” and “lifts.”

The number of these Korean underground idols is rapidly increasing, and there are now as many as 50 of them.

What made you become an idol?

“Children of the World” Ashahi
“When I went to Japan and saw some underground idols, I was fascinated by the beautiful girls who were sweating on stage.”

“Shall we have some fun together?” Sen-san
“Both underground idols and their fans love Japanese culture. Japan’s influence is 100%.”

Recently, Japanese otaku culture has spread rapidly in Seoul. Hongdae, known as a city for young people, has even been nicknamed “Honkihabara” after Akihabara.

These maid cafes have become well established, and recently…

“You’re welcome, my lady.”

There’s even a butler cafe, where customers can enjoy games and food.

By the way, the most popular character at the shop is the blonde butler. His charm point is his smile.

“It’s very unique and has a cafe atmosphere that you don’t see very often in Korea, so it’s very refreshing.”

Videos paying homage to Japanese anime are extremely popular, with views approaching 15 million. Recently, however, one that has been gaining attention is…

Reporter
“There are people wearing T-shirts with Japanese anime on them.”

Many people incorporate anime characters into their fashion, and some even get them as tattoos.

“Self-individuality, self-expression, self-satisfaction, I don’t like to dress like everyone else.”
“You can incorporate elements of subculture while still making the most of your individuality.”

Expectations are also rising for “otakunomics,” the economic effect that comes from consumption by people fascinated by “otaku culture.” According to a privately created “otaku map” of Hongdae, the number of related stores has now exceeded 50.

This commercial facility is both a city landmark and a “holy place” for fans of Japanese subculture.

AK Plaza Hongdae Manager
“The building continues to grow at over 50% every year.”

The reasons behind the otaku boom in South Korea include the increased opportunities to watch anime while people are staying at home during the COVID-19 pandemic and the improvement in Japan-South Korea relations, but experts also say…

Popular culture critic Lee Moon-won
“In economically prosperous Korea, individual opinions are now respected, and people can now express their otaku roots without hiding it.”

It looks like otaku’s rapid progress will continue.

Source: Japanese