I like stuff that’s mainly common in one country but considered niche in where I live (as in no one has ever heard of it even if it’s real) but the only exception are either diaspora or a small fandom.
It could be anything from a game, movie, song or a book. Reasons for its obscurity can range from language barrier or no mainstream coverage as that remains region locked to where it’s relevant.
The “When in Rome” expression may fit, however does that mean one has to be interested in whatever is available in their own bubble? As in, am I allowed to listen to K-Pop in America?
Or, are they going to suggest me on listening to Western music instead? Does region matching interests and hobbies matter when making friends or can you have global interests and hobbies?
The issue on obtaining foreign media physically is availability as it’s not sold at stores in their own country but can be imported (not cheap plus tariffs) but it has caveats (hard to replace).
It happens with games I like, as in no one in the US or EU knows what I’m talking about when I mention a Japanese exclusive (it’s hard for me to form new friends with the gaming community due to this).
Hooray for globalisation! We can all eat good food from many cultures, consume media from so many nations, and most importantly, chat with people across the world! The greatest minds from around the world have achieved so many advancements in technology and science through cooperation, we even have Americans, Europeans, and Russians doing science in space on the ISS! I think we should cherish this opportunity to enjoy things from so many different places :D
Of course your interests don’t have to align with what’s popular for your region. It might make fitting in harder initially, but you can most likely find other common topics with people around you. Or you may find it helpful to develop at least superficial knowledge of what’s popular there. Sometimes it develops into a deeper interest.
One of the beautiful things about the internet is that it allows you to find communities for the things that do interest you. It’s not a perfect substitute for in-person interactions but it can make you feel less alone.
