Submit Your Abstract

We welcome individual papers, full panels, roundtables, and workshops. Submit your proposal for WAHS 2026.

Cheju Halla University, Jeju Island, South Korea

May 28–30, 2026

Theme: Cultural Dynamism in the Digital Age—Toward a Universal Theory of Pop Culture Globalization

Overview

The World Association for Hallyu Studies (WAHS) invites submissions for its 2026 World Congress, which seeks to develop a universal theory of pop culture success in the digital platform era. The Korean Wave presents the paradigmatic case for this theoretical project: the first postcolonial pop culture to achieve sustained global dominance in the platform capitalism age. This congress proposes cultural dynamism as a framework operating at the intersection of institutional-rational mechanisms, historical-structural conditions, affective-cultural dynamics, geopolitical-discursive formations, transnational/transmedia culturalism, and gender politics.

Research Tracks

Track 1: Cultural Dynamism (Annual Theme)

Papers addressing theoretical, empirical, or methodological aspects of cultural dynamism, including:

  • 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 IP management
  • Comparative cases beyond Korea
  • Methodological innovations

Track 2: Open Topics in Hallyu Studies

All topics related to Korean Wave studies welcome, including:

  • K-pop, K-drama, film, webtoons, gaming
  • Regional reception 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
300–500 words
20-minute presentation
Full Panel
800–1,000 words
3–4 papers, 90-minute session
Roundtable
500–700 words
4–6 participants
Workshop
500–700 words
Hands-on methodology

Submission Requirements

All submissions must include: author name(s), affiliation(s), and email; presentation or panel title; track selection (1 or 2); 5–7 keywords; brief bio (100 words per presenter); and any special requirements. Submit in English using Chicago or APA citation style.

Important Dates

Call Opens: January 15, 2026
Abstract Deadline: April 15, 2026
Notification: April 30, 2026
Early Registration: May 15, 2026 (20% discount)

Registration Fees

Regular: $300
Students: $150
WAHS Members: Free
Early bird (by May 15): 20% discount

Publication Opportunities

Selected papers will be considered for:

  1. Special issue of Sociétés (peer-reviewed; A&HCI indexed)
  2. Special issue of Hallyu (WAHS flagship journal)
  3. Edited volume with Brill
  4. WAHS Congress Proceedings

Jeju Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a unique setting with natural beauty, volcanic landscapes, and distinctive island culture. Accommodation options from university dormitories to resort hotels will be available with discounted rates for participants.