THE APPEAL OF K-DRAMAS: MEDIA MOTIVATIONS AND MENTAL WELL-BEING AMONG MALAYSIAN MILLENNIALS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55197/qjssh.v7i3.1213Keywords:
K-drama, millennials, media motivations, mental well-being, conceptual framework, uses and gratificationsAbstract
In recent years, the global popularity of Korean dramas (K-Dramas) has surged, particularly among Malaysian millennials. While considerable attention has been given to the cultural influence of the Korean Wave, scholarly research has paid limited attention to how K-Drama consumption may relate to psychological well-being. This conceptual paper seeks to explore the motivations behind K-Drama consumption among millennials and how these motivations may influence their perceived mental well-being. Drawing on the Uses and Gratifications Theory and media psychology perspectives, this study proposes a conceptual framework that connects consumption patterns with emotional needs, identity formation, and well-being outcomes. The paper identifies key motivations such as escapism, emotional catharsis, parasocial interaction, and cultural affinity as central drivers of engagement. It also examines how these elements align with mental health dimensions such as emotional regulation, connectedness, and self-reflection. By synthesising relevant literature and offering a theoretical model, this study provides a foundation for future empirical research. It further highlights the potential role of entertainment media in fostering positive mental health practices among millennials. This paper contributes to the growing body of media and well-being studies and opens new dialogues for researchers, educators, and policymakers concerned with millennials' mental health and cultural media consumption.
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Copyright (c) 2026 YUSLINDA MAT YASSIN, MUHAMMAD FADHLI ABDUL RAHMAN, TENGKU ELENA TENGKU MAHAMAD, MELINA MAHPUZ, BABY ANUSHA NUR MOHAMED THAHEER, HAMIZAH SAHHARON
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