Known in Korea as Hallyu or the Korean Wave, the increase in recognition of Korea’s pop culture is now making its presence known in the United States. Throughout North America, influences of the Korean Wave can be seen in the popularity of the Korean music as well as in the early September U.S. release of the war movie Taeguki, which has attracted more than 350,000 American viewers to date.

What are making the most waves in the Korean Wave though, are the increasingly popular Korean television mini-series, such as “Winter Sonata,” “Autumn Fable,” and “All In.” The dramas were introduced in the United States to meet the demand of Korean viewers, but soon became a favorite with other Asian cultures. Now these dramas are available with English subtitles in most major metropolitan communities and non-Asians are getting hooked. A recent Chicago Tribune article quoted the dramas’ “commitment to family values, minimal sex and a chance to get a peek into a new culture,” as just some of the reasons that Korean television is gaining a foothold.

In response to rising requests for Filming Location tours, Los Angeles-based Four Seasons Tours is offering a six-night, eight-day tour program that will take visitors to some of the most popular filming location sites, including Chuncheon City (the site for Winter Sonata) and the Demilitarized Zone, (site for numerous programs including All In). Furthermore, Four Seasons is promoting that passengers on this tour program, which departs October 12, 2004 from Los Angeles, will also have the opportunity to meet with at least one star of a Korea mini series drama. The programs start at $1,499 per person and are commissionable for travel agents. For more information about Hallyu or Four Season’s tour program, contact the KNTO at 800/TOUR-KOREA.