| The general research question of this research is, "How did U.S. television programs aired in Korea during 1970 to 1993 influence the political and cultural relationship between the two countries, and ultimately, Korean culture in the long term?" There are two theoretical axes: 'cultural/media imperialism' and 'media ideology.' Cultural/media imperialism provides how to approach the issues around communication between center and periphery countries, media ideology studies tell us how to understand the interrelations between media institutions, media contents, and audiences.;The cultural policy of USAMGIK planted the seeding of cultural dependency, which now has become the basis of the center-periphery relationship in the absence of direct political and economic control. It is Koreans' belief in capitalism, American democracy, and American values which keep the nature of the relationship intact. It keeps the 'issue-oriented anti-Americanism' from developing into 'ideological anti-Americanism.' A historical review of the Korean broadcasting system revealed a few characteristics: strong influence of foreign countries, strong political influences, and an awkward position between the public and commercial models.;Five American television shows aired in Korea during 1970 to 1989 were analyzed in order to see how they portray Americans, American society, and America. The results showed a few points. 'Family' is a key component in structuring a show. American television programs' obsession with family brings conservatism. In defining American people, the programs offer stereotypes of certain groups of Americans, such as Blacks, Asians, and women. The fundamental philosophies of American society are found, such as the frontier spirit, belief in social justice, emphasis on peace, and the value of hard-work. Meanwhile, the shows seem to presume that the U.S. is a superior country to any other, in any aspect. There is the material superiority of the U.S., and also the moral superiority. The responsibility of the U.S. in the world is similar to that of the police in a nation: the U.S. on television becomes a watchdog in international order. This is the 'America-centrism.' The standards of the U.S. is depicted to be the universal standards. |
