Russian fans of Japanese anime and Korean K-Pop no longer need to travel abroad to indulge in their passions. Anime festivals in Moscow have become increasingly popular, attracting thousands of cosplayers adorned in vibrant wigs and traditional kimonos. Local vendors offer a wide range of trinkets and merchandise inspired by popular Japanese animations.
K-Pop dance studios, such as GSS Studio, have also witnessed a remarkable growth in recent years. Established in 2016 with just two groups, GSS now boasts thousands of students practicing in multiple studios across Moscow and other Russian cities. The studio organizes large-scale events, including annual concerts and dance competitions, and even arranges tours to South Korea for dedicated K-Pop enthusiasts.
According to studio director Marakshina, the younger generation in Russia is captivated by Asian culture. K-Pop has become ubiquitous and continues to gain momentum. Choreographer Polina Ivanovskaya attributes the surge in interest to the increased visibility of K-Pop music and dance in Russia. She believes that the group aspect of K-Pop dance, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie, has contributed to its appeal.
The influence of K-Pop is evident not only in dance studios but also in public spaces. K-Pop dancers are often seen filming music videos on the streets, further spreading the popularity of the genre. Madina, a member of the K-Pop dance group Snaky, expresses that dancing connects her to the inner world of K-Pop idols and makes her feel part of a community.
