Hallyu! The Korean Wave, What's in Store

Hallyu! The Korean Wave

What is Hallyu?

South Korea has transformed from a country devastated by war in the late 1950s to a leading cultural powerhouse of the 21st century. Through the voices of fans, journalists, practitioners, novelists and academics, Hallyu! explores the makings of the Korean Wave of cultural influence over the interlinked creative industries of cinema, drama, music, fandom, beauty and fashion. Images of K-Pop legends such as Psy, Blackpink and BTS and stills from films and dramas such as Parasite and Squid Game, alongside webtoon comic strips, catwalk shots, traditional and contemporary hanbok clothing, and cosmetics packaging, are just some of the illustrations that capture the creative, colorful and dynamic popular culture of South Korea. Hallyu has become "the world's biggest, fastest cultural paradigm shift in modern history", as noted by writer Euny Hong.

Exhibition Details

From March 24th- July 28th 2024, Hallyu! The Korean Wave explores the makings of all things Korean through cinema, drama, music and fandoms, and underlines its cultural impact on the beauty and fashion industries. The exhibition features around 200 objects alongside pop culture ephemera and digital displays across thematic sections including work from the MFA’s ancient Korean art collection to current K-pop items.

The MFA Shop, What Do We Have in Store?

Hallyu Pop-Culture

We hope that by spotlighting K-pop, dramas, fashion and skincare items you will get a taste of modern Hallyu. The exhibition will have a plethora of sections dedicated to each aspect of the cultural phenomenon that is Hallyu! The MFA shop is fully stocked with all of your wants, everything from celadon vases to Chelec Studios Korean designed apparel, we have something for everyone!

Ancient Hallyu

The Joseon Dynasty was one of the longest reigning monarchies in history from 1392-1910, with an abundance of ancient culture, much of which will be shown in the MFA exhibition including Hanbok (Korean clothes) and 12th-13th century trinkets and ornate porcelain items. The MFA shop carries many products significant to ancient Korean art and culture including home décor items with traditional ancient patterns and designs to commemorate the rich history from the Joseon Dynasty.

MFA Signature X Hallyu

Did you love the Hallyu exhibit? Take something home with you, to share your support. Whether it be a Hallyu vinyl tote or an art keychain all of our MFA signature items are designed with you in mind. We have partnered with a few small businesses for the Hallyu show to bring you exclusive items in conjunction with the exhibition so keep an eye out.