Jazz's popularity in Korea is strongly tied to its association with modernity and progress.
Here's a breakdown of the factors contributing to jazz's prominence in the Korean music scene:
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Association with Modernity: The reference indicates that jazz's connection to "modernity" is a significant reason for its popularity. This suggests that jazz, in the Korean context, represents something new, sophisticated, and forward-thinking. It moved beyond traditional musical forms.
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Historical Context (Implied): While not explicitly stated, factors such as colonialism and class likely played a role in shaping the perception of jazz. Imported cultural forms often carry associations with power and prestige.
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Sophistication and Aspiration: Jazz might have become associated with a certain level of sophistication and cultural awareness, making it appealing to those aspiring to a more modern and globalized lifestyle.
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Musical Innovation: Jazz is known for its improvisation and complex harmonies. This could have appealed to Korean musicians and audiences seeking something different from traditional Korean music and popular music trends.
Therefore, jazz's popularity in Korea goes beyond mere musical preference; it is intertwined with historical and cultural associations, particularly its strong link to the idea of modernity.
