From K-Pop Demon Hunters to bibimbap, South Korea’s pop culture takeover is real. What was once known mainly for its electronics and cars has now become a cultural superpower. Thanks to K-pop, K-dramas, K-beauty, and Korean food, the Korean Wave, (aka Hallyu 한류), has reached every corner of the globe.
In this article, we’ll show you how the Korean Wave comes to life at Heroes Made in Asia 2025: from dancing along with K-pop to trying K-beauty, tasting authentic Korean food, exploring fashion, and celebrating the traditions that make South Korea so unique.
Table of Contents
K-Pop at HMIA: Dance, Perform, Experience
K-pop isn’t just a genre. It’s an experience. At HMIA, you can join Random Dance Plays, where the biggest K-pop hits blast through the hall and fans jump in to dance along. Whether you know every step or just want to clap and cheer, the energy is contagious.
You can also learn choreographies from professionals, plus live shows from talented groups. And yes, this is the perfect place to meet fellow fans, trade photocards, and rep your bias.
K-Dramas: Warning, You Might Binge All night
We all know that feeling: “Just one more episode.” Suddenly it’s 3 a.m. and you’ve finished an entire K-drama season.
And I’m not just talking about Squid Game (like, who hasn’t seen that?). From survival suspense to the heart-fluttering romance of Crash Landing on You, K-dramas pull you in with emotional storytelling, gorgeous visuals, and unforgettable characters.
Here are some K-drama’s you can watch to get in the mood for Heroes Made in Asia.
K-Beauty: Skincare, but at What Cost
If you’ve ever tried a Korean sheet mask, you know the magic. South Korea turned skincare into a kind of self-care ritual with sparkle.
The famous 10-step routine may sound like a workout, but the idea is simple: hydrate, glow, protect. Think snail mucin serums (yes, really), cushion compacts that give you that glass-skin effect, and masks for every mood. From calming green tea sheets to bubbly foam masks that feel like a science experiment on your face.
But here’s the best part: you can actually shop K-beauty products right at Heroes Made in Asia.
🎥 Video tip: Want to see how far people go for K-beauty? Check out this YouTube video:
K-Food: Come Hungry, Leave Happy
Let’s be honest: the food alone is reason enough to love South Korea.
Kimchi: Spicy, tangy, addictive, you’ll wonder why you didn’t grow up with it.
Korean BBQ: It’s like dinner and a cooking class in one. You grill your own meat, share side dishes (banchan), and toast with soju.
Bibimbap: The prettiest rice bowl you’ll ever eat, topped with colorful veggies, egg, and chili paste.
Tteokbokki: Chewy rice cakes swimming in spicy sauce. Street food heaven.
Eating in Korea is more than filling your stomach, it’s about sharing, bonding, and laughing around the table.
K-Fashion: Where Street Style Meets Catwalk
Walk through Seoul’s neighborhoods like Hongdae or Myeongdong, and you’ll see what we mean. Every corner feels like a fashion show, oversized blazers, sneakers with neon accents, and hanbok-inspired streetwear.
K-pop idols and K-Drama actresses set the trends, luxury brands follow, and fans worldwide recreate the looks. It’s bold, experimental, and somehow always cooler than what’s in your closet.
Visiting South Korea: The Real-Life K-Drama Set
If you’re dreaming of visiting, here are a few highlights:
Seoul: futuristic meets traditional, with nightlife, palaces, and shopping.
Busan: beaches, seafood, and the famous film festival.
Jeju Island: volcanoes, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
DMZ: a fascinating look at history on the border with North Korea.
And yes, you can take a K-pop dance class in Seoul, just in case you want to go viral with the new K-Pop Demon Hunters move.
FAQ: Korean influence at Heroes Made in Asia
K-Pop Experience
K-pop fans can look forward to Random Dance Plays, fan meet-ups, K-merch stands, and a community full of people who share their passion. It’s the perfect chance to show off your moves or cheer along.
Absolutely. There are activities for kids and teens, so the event is fun for the whole family.
Yes! Even if K-pop isn’t your thing, you’ll find plenty of other highlights: Workshops & Masterclasses, Voice Actors, Cosplay contests, merchandise and delicious food.
Not at all. Besides K-pop, the event also celebrates Anime, Manga, Gaming, Cosplay, Asian food, and Culture. There’s something for every fan.
K-Beauty, Food & Fashion
Yes. Discover skincare and makeup products, by some of our amazing exhibitors. Ask for tips to improve your skincare routine!
Definitely! Taste Korean classics like tteokbokki, bibimbap, and sweet street food such as hotteok pancakes.
Yes, the dealer halls are filled with K-fashion, albums, posters, lightsticks, and other collectibles.
No. It’s a celebration of all Asian pop culture. Anime, Manga, Cosplay, Gaming, Workshops, Food, Culture and Merchandise all in one place.
General Event Experience
Not at all. Many visitors come in casual clothes. But if you want to try out K-fashion or cosplay your favorite idol, you’ll be celebrated.
Yes! There are plenty of photo spots, cosplay sets, and colorful backdrops that are perfect for Instagram-worthy moments.
Absolutely. There are activities for kids and teens, so the event is fun for the whole family.
Why the World Can’t Get Enough
South Korea’s global wave isn’t slowing down. From Grammy stages to skincare aisles and Netflix charts, K-culture has woven itself into our daily lives.
But beyond the global hype lies something more human: stories about family, resilience, love, and dreams. Whether it’s through a drama, a meal, or a song, Korean culture makes people feel connected and that’s what keeps the wave rolling.
