K-Content on Global OTT Platforms Exposes Japanese Imperial Atrocities

K-content is effectively shedding light on the atrocities committed during the Japanese imperial era through global OTT platforms.

The Netflix animation 'K-pop Demon Hunters' has unexpectedly gained significant traction. Recently, an overseas TikTok creator posted a video stating they learned about the extinction of Korean tigers by Japan during the last century after watching the show and researching tiger history. This video garnered over 1.2 million views, sparking interest and numerous comments discussing Japan's past actions.

Historically, during the Japanese occupation, Korea's tigers were officially designated as 'harmful animals' (haesu) by Japan, leading to organized extermination efforts starting in 1917. This historical fact is now being re-examined thanks to 'K-pop Demon Hunters'.

Professor Seo Kyung-duk of Sungshin Women's University commented, "This isn't the first time Japanese wartime atrocities have been revealed globally through OTT platforms." Previously, Apple TV+'s 'Pachinko' depicted the tragedies of Koreans subjected to forced labor and sexual slavery by the Japanese military, and Netflix's 'Gyeongseong Creature' focused on the horrific human experimentation conducted by Unit 731 during the Japanese colonial period.

Professor Seo expressed his hope, "I hope more K-content in the future will spread worldwide and serve as a channel to properly inform people about Asian history." This signifies K-content's role extending beyond mere entertainment to become a platform for cultural exchange and historical education, actively countering Japan's historical revisionism and influencing global perceptions.

Professor Seo Kyung-duk is widely recognized as a Korean promotion specialist, actively working to promote Korean history and culture internationally. He has particularly focused on actively countering historical distortions by Japan and has launched various campaigns to correct misinformation. His initiatives have significantly contributed to building a positive image of Korea and accurately disseminating historical facts by leveraging K-content.