Why Does South Korea Lag in Recognizing Indonesia Despite Its K-pop and Dramas Fanbase?

South Korea and Indonesia share a cordial relationship, yet the former often lags in understanding the latter. This article delves into the factors behind this phenomenon, focusing on military contracts, cultural differences, and the strengths and weaknesses of each country's entertainment industry.

Military Contracts and Financial Delays

The strained relationship between South Korea and Indonesia regarding military transactions stands out as a significant issue. In 2011, Indonesia contracted for three submarines, with a financial agreement of 180 million USD. However, the payment went unpaid, leading to a hold on the contract. Similarly, South Korea and Indonesia planned a joint development of the KF-21 fighter jet, with a 635 million USD investment. The lack of financial commitment from the Indonesian side became a recurring theme.

In 2022, the situation took a dramatic turn. Indonesia announced they would purchase Rafale fighter jets from France, a move that significantly dampened Korean trust and undermined their trust in Indonesian reliability. Such cases highlight the importance of fulfilling promises and financial commitments, which are crucial for international cooperation and mutual trust.

Cultural and Entertainment Comparisons

The gap in awareness between the two countries can also be attributed to cultural and entertainment differences. South Korea is known for its robust K-pop and dramatic content, which enjoy immense popularity across Asia. However, the Indonesian populace's preference for local entertainment is a significant factor.

Geographical Distance: The vast distance between the two countries can contribute to less exposure to each other's culture and media. Notably Famous People: It is noteworthy that Loudi of Trieb and DITA, while well-known in the K-pop scene, are not yet household names in Indonesia. This limited acknowledgment reflects the need for further international exposure and promotion.

South Korean culture, heavily influenced by Western and East Asian influences, differs from Indonesia's predominantly Islamic culture. The confusion of Indonesia with India, due to the misunderstanding that “Indo” refers to the name “India” in some contexts, further highlights the need for cultural education and awareness.

Current Industrial and Economic Developments

Notwithstanding the above challenges, there are signs of growing cooperation. Both countries are developing car battery industries due to Indonesia's vast nickel resources. The Indonesian government and Korean companies are committed to investing in these sectors to boost mutual benefits.

While the entertainment industry remains a key area of interest, the economic ties and industrial developments represent a more promising future for the relationship between South Korea and Indonesia. For South Korea, there is a need to maintain trust in international dealings, while Indonesia must prioritize fulfilling financial commitments and promoting cultural understanding.

In conclusion, the awareness gap between South Korea and Indonesia is influenced by a combination of historical cooperation, cultural differences, and economic factors. Addressing these issues can pave the way for a more comprehensive and productive relationship in both the cultural and economic spheres.