A Subcultural Comparative Analysis: The Case of China, Japan, and Korea

As influential nations in East Asia, China, Japan, and South Korea have made significant contributions to both regional and global popular culture. The modern Hanfu movement in China, the ACG (Anime, Comics, and Games) culture of Japan, and the K-pop phenomenon of South Korea are representative of each country’s distinct popular culture, attracting worldwide attention. This study aims to explore the perceptions of the Chinese public towards these three subcultures. The reasons underlying their views are also discussed. A reaction time experiment was conducted to provide quantifiable and precise outcomes. Stimuli consisted of images representing each culture, accompanied by descriptions using positive, and negative words. Participants were asked to judge whether they agreed with the combinations of images and descriptions. Reaction times and choices were used to gauge their attitudes towards the subcultures. Data analysis revealed that Chinese participants showed a very positive perception of the modern Hanfu culture based on higher positive scores and a shorter reaction time. Conversely, their impressions of K-pop were less favorable, with the highest negative scores. The score towards ACG culture is between Hanfu and K-pop. However, people are less familiar with ACG culture due to the longest reaction time. Age-based categorization indicated that younger individuals had higher awareness for all three subcultures, and their overall attitudes towards subcultures were more positive comparing with the older groups. Previous studies have inadequately addressed subcultures as specific topics. This research not only fills a gap in the academic research of East Asian subcultures but also provides a novel methodology. It provides an updated understanding of East Asian cultures and promotes an inclusive perspective on cultural diversity.