Cultural Factor
RRL#1
The growing popularity of Korean restaurants can be attributed to various cultural factors,
with the global Hallyu wave (Korean Wave) playing a major role in sparking interest in Korean
culture, particularly among Filipinos. This wave, which includes K-pop, K-dramas, films, and
fashion, has served as a cultural bridge, making Korean cuisine more attractive to a wider audience.
Exposure to Korean media has not only raised awareness but also deepened curiosity about
Korean food as an integral part of the broader cultural experience (Notorio, 2024). As Filipinos
engage with popular K-dramas and K-pop, their interest in exploring the foods featured on screen
has grown, driving greater demand for authentic Korean dining experiences.
Notorio, P (2024). An Analysis on Motivational Factors Affecting the Rise of Korean Restaurants in
the Province of Cavite
https://www.researchpublish.com/upload/book/An%20Analysis%20on%20Motivational%20Fact
ors-28012024-5.pdf
RRL#2
The global spread of South Korean culture, known as the Hallyu wave, has significantly
influenced Filipino consumers' willingness to embrace Korean cuisine, especially in Metro Manila.
Cultural exposure through entertainment, particularly K-dramas, plays a pivotal role in cultivating
familiarity and establishing a connection to Korean food. These dramas often feature Korean
culinary traditions in an engaging and relatable way, igniting an intrinsic desire in viewers to
experience these dishes firsthand. This dynamic between media consumption and culinary curiosity
underscores the profound impact cultural familiarity has on consumer behavior, propelling the
increasing popularity of Korean cuisine among Filipinos (Reyes. et al., 2020).
Reyes. et.al, (2020). Cultural Familiarity and the Adoption of Korean Cuisine in Metro Manila.
https://ojs.amhinternational.com/index.php/imbr/article/download/3952/2593/.
RRL#3
The Hallyu wave has significantly transformed Filipino dining habits, particularly in the
context of Korean restaurants. The increasing popularity of Korean entertainment, especially among
younger Filipinos, has directly contributed to the surge in interest in Korean cuisine. Young
Filipinos are more likely to try new and trendy food experiences tied to the culture they admire.
Korean food, often featured in K-dramas and films, has become a part of the cultural experience
they seek to emulate (Park et al. 2021). This trend showcases the deep influence of South Korean
cultural exports on the dining habits of the Filipino population, leading to a noticeable increase in
Korean restaurant visits and the growing acceptance of Korean cuisine.
Park, H. et al. (2021). Hallyu and Its Influence on the Dining Habits of Filipinos: A Focus on Korean
Restaurants. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S027843191100185X.
RRL#4
The rise of Korean culture, which spans music, fashion, and food, has significantly driven the
demand for Korean culinary experiences in locations like Medan, Indonesia. Consumers become
increasingly exposed to these cultural elements through various media platforms; their openness to
exploring new cuisines intensifies (Raj, 2023). This cultural familiarity not only fosters curiosity but also
enhances their willingness to try Korean food.
Understanding the interplay of these cultural factors is crucial for restaurant owners aiming to
effectively attract and engage a diverse clientele. By leveraging the growing interest in Korean culture,
restaurant businesses can better position themselves to meet the evolving tastes and preferences of
consumers.
Raj, (2023). The Influence of Cultural, Social, Brand Image, and Perception of Quality on Purchasing
Decision at Jinjja Chicken.
https://ejournal.seaninstitute.or.id/index.php/Ekonomi/article/download/2113/1859/6842.
