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As the nation moved toward independence and beyond, entertainment became a tool for identity and political expression.
: Originating in Java and Bali, these leather puppets tell epic stories from the Mahabharata
Like many other countries, Indonesia has been deeply influenced by global pop culture trends. The "Hallyu Wave" (Korean Wave) has had a profound impact, with K-pop, K-dramas, and Korean fashion and beauty products becoming immensely popular. This influence can be seen in everything from the music produced by local artists to the aesthetics of Indonesian television shows and advertisements.
In recent years, Indonesian films have gained international recognition, with films like "The Raid: Redemption" (2011) and "Laskar Pelangi" (2008) receiving critical acclaim. Indonesian films often focus on themes such as social issues, family drama, and romance, with a growing trend towards more experimental and genre-bending films.