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FEATURE
April 30, 2023
Asia, home of the chilling genre
While many mainstream horror movies have seen harsh criticisms so far since 2020, horror television continues to grow in popularity and shift the genre's fanbase in a new direction. With the rise of streaming giants like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video dominating a large section of media, the possibilities for horror have expanded significantly for a few distinct reasons.
Regardless of how mainstream horror movies are doing, horror television is here to stay and, as streaming continues to become more dominant as a media source, there's sure to be a bright future for the genre. By K Dass, Viral Exclusive.
The ability for binge-watching series on Netflix - as the full season tends to drop all at once - gave horror fans a new way to enjoy content from the comfort of their own home, and without having to wait week to week, as was being done on network television. While serialized television hasn't seen a complete downslide in popularity, horror content is more able to push boundaries on streaming networks like Hulu and Netflix as well, similar to what was done on HBO and Showtime, though their content is set up so that all audiences can find something to explore within the same genre.
Meanwhile, Asia got busy and its home to some of the most terrifying and spine-chilling horror shows in the world. From ghostly apparitions to demonic possessions, the horror genre in Asia has always been popular with viewers, both locally and globally. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the huge market for Asian horror shows and why they are more popular than their Western counterparts.
Popularity of Asian horror
One of the main reasons why Asian horror shows are so popular is because of their unique cultural and societal influences. Asia has a rich history of ghost stories and supernatural beliefs that have been passed down through generations. These stories are deeply ingrained in the local culture and have become a part of the collective consciousness of people across the region. This is reflected in the horror shows produced in Asia, which often draw upon these cultural beliefs to create truly terrifying experiences for viewers.
Additionally, the societal pressures and stresses that people in Asia face on a daily basis can also contribute to the popularity of horror shows. The high levels of competition and pressure to succeed can create a lot of anxiety and tension, which can be relieved through the cathartic experience of watching horror shows. In some cases, it can even provide a sense of comfort to viewers, as they are able to confront their fears in a controlled environment.
Asia's unique storytelling
Another factor contributing to the popularity of Asian horror shows is their unique storytelling style. Many Asian horror shows are characterized by slow-burn suspense and intricate plotlines that gradually build up to a terrifying climax. This is in contrast to the more fast-paced and action-packed horror shows produced in the West, which often rely on jump scares and gore to create scares. The emphasis on suspense and atmosphere in Asian horror shows allows for a more immersive and psychologically terrifying experience for viewers.
The popularity of Asian horror shows is not just limited to the region itself. In fact, there is a huge market for their viewership and distribution across the globe. Asian horror shows have gained a cult following in countries such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, where they are often viewed by fans of the horror genre.
According to a report by the online streaming platform, Netflix, the popularity of Asian horror shows has been steadily increasing in recent years. The report stated that more than 80% of viewers who watched the Korean horror series, "Kingdom," were from outside of South Korea. Similarly, the Japanese horror series, "Ju-On: Origins," saw a high level of viewership from international audiences.
Another possible reason for the popularity of Asian horror shows in the West is the ability to offer a fresh perspective of the genre. Western audiences are often accustomed to the conventions and tropes of Western horror shows, which can become predictable and repetitive. The unique storytelling style and cultural influences of Asian horror shows offer a refreshing change of pace for viewers.
Popularity and accessibility
The ease of access to these shows through online streaming platforms such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video also contributes to the popularity. These platforms have made it easier than ever for viewers to discover and watch Asian horror shows, which were previously only available through specialized DVD imports.
In terms of statistics, a study conducted by Nielsen in 2018 found that the most popular Asian horror subgenre among U.S. viewers was supernatural horror, which includes shows such as "The Ring" and "The Grudge." The study also found that Asian horror shows were most popular among viewers aged 18-49.
The huge market for viewership and distribution of Asian horror shows across the globe can be attributed to their unique cultural and societal influences, storytelling style, and ability to offer a fresh perspective on the horror genre. While the horror genre in the West is often characterized by jump scares and gore, Asian horror shows emphasize slow-burn suspense and intricate plotlines. As the popularity of these shows continues.
