World Association for
Hallyu Studies
Advancing the academic study of the Korean Wave through international collaboration, research excellence, and scholarly discourse across diverse disciplines.
12th World Congress for Hallyu Studies (WAHS 2026)
Cultural Dynamism in the Digital Age: Toward a Universal Theory of Pop Culture Globalization
Conference Overview
The World Association for Hallyu Studies (WAHS) invites submissions for the 12th World Congress for Hallyu Studies, to be held in Seoul and hosted at the International Convention Center of Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU).
This year's congress advances WAHS's core intellectual agenda: the development of a universal theory of pop culture success in the digital platform era, with the Korean Wave serving as a paradigmatic case.
We conceptualize Cultural Dynamism as emerging at the intersection of:
- Institutional–rational mechanisms
- Historical–structural conditions
- Affective–cultural dynamics
- Geopolitical–discursive formations
- Transnational and transmedia cultural processes
- Gender politics
Distinguished Keynote Speakers
Jieun Kiaer
Young Bin Min–KF Professor of Korean Linguistics, University of Oxford
Ingyu Oh
Professor, Kansai Gaidai University
Former President, World Association for Hallyu Studies
Joann Elfving-Hwang
Professor of Korean Society and Culture, Curtin University
Director, Korea Research & Engagement Centre (KRC)
Research Tracks
Cultural Dynamism (Annual Theme)
We welcome theoretical, empirical, and methodological contributions on:
- Platform capitalism and digital circulation
- Gender politics and female universalism
- Production systems and business models
- Fandom practices and participatory culture
- Postcolonial positioning and geopolitical contexts
- Transmedia storytelling and intellectual property management
- Comparative cases beyond Korea
- Methodological innovations
Open Topics in Hallyu Studies
Submissions addressing all aspects of the Korean Wave are encouraged, including:
- K-pop, K-drama, film, webtoons, and gaming
- Regional reception and audience studies
- Language learning and Korean Studies
- Cultural policy and soft power
- Tourism and place branding
- Consumption practices
- Authenticity and cultural translation
Submission Types
Individual Paper Abstracts
300–500 words
20-minute presentations
Full Panel Proposals
800–1,000 words
3–4 papers; 90-minute sessions
Roundtable Proposals
500–700 words
4–6 participants
Workshop Proposals
500–700 words
Practice-oriented methodological or pedagogical sessions
Submission Requirements
All submissions must include:
- Author name(s), institutional affiliation(s), and contact email
- Title of paper or panel
- Track selection (Track 1 or Track 2)
- 5–7 keywords
- A brief biographical note (up to 100 words per presenter)
Important Dates
Publication Opportunities
Selected papers will be considered for publication in:
- Hallyu: The Korean Wave (WAHS Journal)
- Sociétés (A&HCI-indexed)
- WAHS Conference Proceedings
Executive Committee
The scholars and practitioners leading WAHS and shaping Hallyu studies globally.
President
Advisors
Vice Presidents & Directors
Secretary General
Auditors
International Board Members
About WAHS
The World Association for Hallyu Studies (WAHS) is an international academic organization comprising scholars and practitioners engaged in the study and promotion of Hallyu across diverse disciplines. Since 2013, we have established 36 overseas branches in 26 countries, fostering transnational collaboration and cross-cultural communication.
Learn More About WAHS →