A survey of Hong Kong high school students revealed that 62% of them own K-pop merchandise, such as posters, figures, and T-shirts.

According to a survey conducted by students from St. Paul’s Secondary School in Hong Kong, out of 228 respondents, 62.3% stated that they possess K-pop-related items.

Additionally, 61.4% of respondents expressed an interest in learning the Korean language because of K-pop, while 57% found Korean fashion appealing.

When asked if they would like to dance when they hear Korean music compared to English or Chinese music, 59.6% replied affirmatively.

These survey results were presented at the 2nd Korea Forum for Hong Kong Young Leaders, held at the University of Hong Kong the day before. The Korea Forum, organized by the Korean Consulate General in Hong Kong, the Korean Cultural Center, and the Korean Studies Department of the University of Hong Kong, allows local high school students to form teams and conduct research in various areas related to Korea.

This year, participating teams presented topics such as the impact of K-pop on the Korean economy and cultural dissemination, the influence of Korean dramas on Korean tourism, and the impact of Korean education on Korean economic development.

The team from St. Paul’s Secondary School, who presented the survey results along with their theme on the impact of K-pop on the Korean economy and cultural dissemination, received the top award.

In Hong Kong, where Hallyu (Korean Wave) is highly popular, Korean dramas often dominate the top 10 rankings in local Netflix drama lists, and K-pop performances enjoy great success.

In light of this trend, starting in 2025, the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) will include Korean as an elective foreign language subject