In this episode of Culture and Code, Rei and Tara discuss the recent popularity of fictional characters like K-Pop Demon Hunters and Labubu and what we can learn about relatability and escapism.
They explore the concept of escapism and its appeal through multidimensionality and contradiction, making these characters relatable. The conversation delves into the unexpected success of K-Pop Demon Hunters on Netflix, the strategic missteps by Sony, and how modern brands could leverage multidimensionality in their narratives.
Sony’s misstep and Netflix’s luck
Multidimensionality of Characters
Escapism vs. Relatability
Rei Inamoto
Creative entrepreneur and founding partner of I&CO, a global innovation firm with offices in New York, Tokyo, and Singapore.
Tara Tan
Managing partner of Strange Ventures, an early-stage firm investing in the future of computing.
Connect & Subscribe
Culture and Code is a podcast about the biggest shifts in tech, business, and culture—before they go mainstream. New episodes on every Tuesday.