Abstract

Cultural policy has been deployed by Korea to address issues of national identity as well as development and growth, including creative industry exports. While the actual role of policy is controversial, a salient feature is the way Korea’s policies evolved over time. We observe a combination of setbacks and achievements, with the latter much dependent on the ability of adjusting policy along the way. With focus on the so-called Korean wave, we advocate reforms with the aim to enable the sector and its key actors themselves to draw on the unique treats of Korea’s culture for innovation and sustainable cross-border and cross-cultural exchange in the digital era.