South Korean pop culture continues to have a big influence on young people across Asia. Just think about the popularity of the song--and dance-- "Gangnam Style" and the TV series "My Love from the Stars" right here in China. That may explain why the upcoming Beijing Student Film Festival has set up a screening unit of South Korean films.

South Korean pop culture continues to have a big influence on young people across Asia.

The Beijing Student Film Festival is offering up cinematic treats for 33 days, starting Tuesday.

Among the offerings are eight box office hits from South Korean films produced since the 1990s. They come in an eclectic mix of genres including comedy, animation, sci-fi, action and romance.

At forums, film experts from China and industry insiders from South Korea will discuss their respective film industries and topics such as "commercial films and cultural presentation".

"We should learn from South Korean films in term of exporting local culture and exerting an influence on the audience," said Zhou Xing, deputy director of Festival Organizing Committee.

TV dramas like "The Heirs" and "My Love From the Stars" have turned young Chinese on to the food, clothing, language and customs from the neighboring country.

South Korea excels at combining the essence of traditional culture with the wildly imaginative plot.

"The love feelings presented in the TV drama "My Love From the Stars" is very pure, reserved and oriental. But the plot, at the same time, is very creative. These are all we should learn from South Korea," Zhou Xing said.

It’s hoped the brainstorming between the industry insiders of the two countries will set sparks flying on screen.

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