K-pop Innovation: The Future of Korean Innovation that Took the World by Storm

K-pop's remarkable global popularity is no coincidence. Its success cannot be attributed to a talented individual or a set of favourable government policies but is instead the result of continuous innovation by risk-taking entrepreneurs.For the first time in English, this book presents a focus on the managerial and structural features of the K-pop industry to unpack the resounding success of K-pop companies and the Hallyu Wave phenomenon. It analyses leading industry players, explaining the success strategies of K-pop from the perspective of innovation management theory. It places a particular special emphasis on SM Entertainment, a leading pioneer in the South Korean entertainment industry, and sheds light on the company's strategies for success.As the book examines how K-pop developed over time, it draws an interesting parallel with the semiconductor and IT industries, noting common characteristics between them. It concludes with thoughts on K-pop's future and advises K-pop innovators on developing new business models combining new technologies in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and augmented reality (AR) to keep the momentum going. It is a must-read for readers interested in innovation, the entertainment industry, and the global phenomenon that is the Hallyu Wave.Readership: Scholars and students of East Asian studies, innovation specialists, international business specialists, Korean culture specialists, media studies specialists, popular culture specialists, creativity management specialists, government officials in relation ministries, fans of K-pop and the Hallyu Wave worldwide. Read more