K-pop Craze Sweeps Through Cuba Amid Internet Boom

In recent years, K-pop has gained significant popularity in Cuba, a country traditionally dominated by salsa music. This shift can be attributed to improved internet access, which has allowed young Cubans to discover and engage with South Korean pop culture. The genre's infectious beats and elaborate choreography have captivated a new generation, leading to the formation of dedicated fan clubs and dance groups. Notably, two Cuban groups, Limitless and LTX, have even participated in the K-POP World Festival in South Korea, showcasing their talent on an international stage. The rise of K-pop in Cuba began about a decade ago when South Korean soap operas became popular among Cuban audiences. As internet speeds improved and government restrictions eased, more young people began streaming K-pop videos, mirroring trends seen in other parts of the world. This cultural exchange has created a vibrant community of fans who express their passion through dance and music. Despite the enthusiasm for K-pop among the youth, the older generation of Cuban leaders has maintained a more cautious stance towards South Korea. Diplomatic relations between the two nations were only restored this year after being severed since the Cuban revolution in 1959. The Cuban government remains a strong ally of North Korea, which views K-pop as a form of capitalist propaganda. The growing interest in K-pop reflects broader changes in Cuban society, where young people are increasingly seeking new forms of expression and connection through global cultural phenomena. This trend highlights the potential for cultural exchange to bridge gaps between different nations and generations.