From BTS to 'Squid Game', Korean culture is now a multi-billion-dollar industry that has infiltrated every corner of the globe – giving even the likes of Hollywood a run for its money.

Journalist Joi Lee investigates the reasons behind the Koren wave’s global success. She meets with the people who drive this phenomenon – from Webtoon authors to K-pop stars and wannabes – and even goes on set for the next K-drama hit, Imitation.

But does Korea’s success come at a cost? Every few months, the world reels in shock at the news of another Korean celebrity taking their life. Joi finds out the gruelling reality of what it takes to be successful in Korea’s entertainment industry. She meets with a former K-pop star and a celebrity counsellor, and learns of the immense pressures Korean celebrities are under - made worse now that the whole world is watching.

Part of the series Deciphering South Korea