NASCAR vs. F1: Why NASCAR Struggles to Find Fans in South Korea
Motorsports, NASCAR
A Different Charm from F1
Why Isn’t it Popular in South Korea?
Nascar (North American Stock Car Auto Racing) is considered the most famous motorsport in the world, along with F1 (Formula One). NASCAR is a US-representative motorsport and is second only to American football in popularity.
NASCAR, which uses ‘stock cars’ that are modified from regular sedans, etc., to run on an oval track at a speed of over 300 km/h (186 mph) for a distance of at least 320 km (200 miles) and up to 960 km (596 miles), has the advantage of being a relatively simple race that allows us to watch it without difficulty.
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Popularity spread in Canada, Mexico, and Europe
Most Races are held only in the US
Previously, it was considered exclusive to Americans and only popular in the US. Still, its popularity has recently spread worldwide, including in Mexico, Canada, and Europe. There are some enthusiasts in South Korea.
First, in the case of Formula One, the most popular motorsport in the world, races are held worldwide. On the other hand, because NASCAR races are held in the US, it is not easy for people outside of neighboring countries to access them.
Motorsports are not popular in South Korea
Hyundai was Invited to Participate
Motorsport is not popular in South Korea. The reason for NASCAR’s unpopularity is cultural differences. Existing races are regular, and the driver’s ability is also essential to the results. Still, in NASCAR, accidents frequently occur when cars hit and collide with each other, and in severe cases, even physical fights can break out.
Automakers’ direct participation characterizes NASCAR. It was reported that Hyundai was also invited to participate in NASCAR in 2019. However, the cost of the involvement was much higher than expected, so participation was not actively considered. If South Korean automakers participate in the US’s largest motorsport, the demand group is expected to be larger than it is now.
One unique feature of NASCAR is that car manufacturers directly participate. In 2019, Hyundai Motors was invited to participate in NASCAR. However, the cost of participation was reportedly so high that they did not actively consider it. The demand could increase if a domestic manufacturer participates in America’s largest motorsport.
It does not suit South Korean tastes
However, Charm Felt by actual viewing
It is not popular in South Korea because it does not fit South Korean culture and tastes. However, given that some South Koreans who viewed the race found it entertaining, an exciting attraction will be created if there is some publicity.
In the case of Formula One, owing to the broadcast of Formula One races on a South Korean online streaming service, awareness has increased amid a strong existing South Korean fan group. In addition, as plans to create a motorsports cluster were revealed on Yeongjongdo Island in Incheon, it is expected that new opportunities may arise in revitalizing motorsports in South Korea.
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