[Paper Thoughts] The Truth Untold of a Fan

Sensational K-POP group, BTS, during their Permission to Dance Stage in Seoul, South Korea. Photo Source: BIG HIT MUSIC/HYBE.

People often hear the words "annyeonghaseyo," "kamsahamnida," and "saranghae," especially in television shows or the songs of an idol group that we, the youth, constantly watch and listen to.

This phenomenon is called Hallyu Wave or Korean Wave but is widely known as K-Drama or K-Pop.

South Korea is a country where history, culture, tradition, and economy prevail and preserve. It is where the famous Hallyu Wave originated.

This prominent wave of culture in music, movies, shows, skin products, and fashion from South Korea signifies the widespread acceptance and approval of Korean products, especially in the Philippines.

K-Dramas and K-Pop are not new here in the Philippines. We have already warmly welcomed this wave during the second generation of K-Pop.

Where Filipinos have unconsciously listened to Wonder Girls' "Nobody," sang the lines "Girls' Generation make you feel the heat!" and know 2ne1's Sandara Park by heart.

We have already watched their historical drama “Jewel in the Palace,” crazed over Lee Min Ho in “Boys Over Flowers,” and Hyun Bin in “My Name is Kim Sam Soon.”

Due to this early exposure to the world of Korean culture way back then, we, the Filipino youth, are now easily influenced in various ways possible.

As a Filipino youth who stans Korean idol groups, I can easily confirm this phenomenon as really influential to the growth and personality of an individual.

Some groups advocate for the struggles the youth experience, and other groups represent the freedom of youthful life. But, they have one thing in common – comfort through music.

They give us this sense of escape even when we feel trapped. Paint a pop of color to a world of blues and grays. And acceptance in a society filled with criticisms and judgments.

They bring solace when everything fills with hurt and pain. And calmness in chaos happening within ourselves.

Their reassuring music and content affect how I perceive society today. And its influence also brought a positive outlook to my life.

They gave me the strength to face darkness and pick up the broken pieces of myself. And I was able to learn how to love myself and accept my weaknesses.

"Bloomed in a garden of loneliness – a flower that resembles you." - The Truth Untold, BTS.

The shadows and the blinding darkness we encounter whenever we wander and feel lonely are the dried leaves of our past that fall to sprout a journey of a blooming and growing path.