Response paper #1

1. How were you introduced to Asian popular culture?
Frankly, I was not introduced, but simply just blend into the Asian popular since I lived in Taiwan. Everyday when I wake up, I automatically update the latest information comes from all media resources, TV commercials, radio channels, newspapers and magazines. The advantage of living in Taiwan is that not only I can receive Taiwanese entertainers’ news, but also reach out towards to other close by Asian locations such as Hong Kong, Japan and Korea.

2. What aspects of Asian popular culture do you enjoy? For example, what are some of your favorite films, dramas, groups, etc., etc.?
There is one specific talk show that I personally enjoy a lot called ‘Kang Xi Lai Le.” It is a really laid-back show with famous entertainers being cozily interviewed by a host and a hostess; therefore, we can see a different aspect of that person. The show is watchable on youtube as well, which benefits many students who study abroad. Besides, I also watch some Taiwanese soap opera / dramas from time to time. Taiwanese drama like to adopt idols as leading actor/ actress to attract its popularity.

3. What happens to you in the process of watching/listening/engaging in (different types of) Asian popular culture? How is it different from watching/listening/engaging in American popular culture?

Compared with the Asian pop culture, I’d say American pop culture is mores straightforward, especially when it comes to parody. Japan, as we know, has strict step-by-step TV rundown in entertaining industry. The twist part is already calculated precisely when the shows mean to make audiences laugh. Certain people do certain of things or speak certain of words at the specific moments. Meanwhile, the reality shows are not really popular in Asian countries, which I think is because Asian countries are more conservative toward their privacy.

4. What are some Asian popular culture blogs and sites you have found fun, helpful, or informative? Please provide links if possible.

For students who study abroad, we all know a p2p software called “PPS.” However, by using the software the priority is to understand Mandarin. Other choices could be found on youtube as well. I usually just log on yahoo website to see the every day showbiz, but not at some specific websites or blogs. There is one which is more like the fashion-critic blog similar to gofugyourself.com, but in Mandarin. This blog http://mbpo.blogspot.com/ criticizes awful outfits that entertainers wear worldwide periodically.