Arts and Culture Undermined in Mongolia - M.A.D. Investment Solutions
ARTS AND CULTURE UNDERMINED IN MONGOLIA
June 12, 2012 on: culture
Mongolia, being a developing country, has local people swept off their feet by the American Dream. The top desired destination for Mongolian students for many years has remained the States for non-educational reasons. Also, the number of Mongolian tourists travelling to America has increased every year. First and foremost, everything American is worshiped by many. Even today, its influence upon Mongolians is strong.
The reason why I say the influence of the American lifestyle was even stronger in the past than today is because now there is competition from Asian countries. The cult of J-pop and K-pop is spreading at a fast speed throughout the world. Mongolia is not an exception. Korean soap operas have been invading our television screens for years, and the half-English and half-Korean lyrical songs have been heard so many times that our teens are now speaking in Korean. The posters of Girls Generation are replacing those of J.Lo. This cultures attack may be even more damaging to our culture than the previous one. The J-pop and K-pop idols are Asians whose resemblance to us makes it impossible for outsiders to tell who comes from which country, making it very easy for Mongolians to imitate. Starting with the hairstyle and ending with the pair of designer jeans everything is copied. The usage of idols such as K-pop versus American ones makes it relatively cheaper and easier to get hold of, making the imitation even more possible. The final product is Mongolians who consume everything that K-pop idols advertise.
It is unlikely that Mongolian culture will invade the world in the near future; however, it is due to evolve. The traditional music admired by so many elders is unpopular amongst the youth. Like so many other nations, Mongolian culture must change while keeping tradition at its core. This will not only generate a lot of profit for artists but will help to spread the love of the nation amongst the youth. Like in our fellow Asian country Korea, traditional music can co-exist with more upbeat versions favoured by the younger generation. In order for modernised Mongolian music and culture to emerge, the representatives of the industries must turn to traditional Mongolian music rather than K-Pop stars for inspiration. Observing and copying be it Asian or Western stars may be the safer way, with more potential for profits but not as long-lasting. Additionally, the governments support of the arts and culture must be more sustainable than the medals they give out today which bring no financial support. The realization that arts and culture can generate more advantages than just nice music or movies to enjoy for few hours could prove to be a support system for our economy and spread our traditions amongst the youth.
