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The first thought that comes to mind when hearing about K-pop might be “Gangnam Style”, the song that was a huge hit back in 2012. However, K-pop (Korean Pop music) is much more than that. It is a genre that has emerged from South Korea that has been gaining major popularity all over the world despite being commonly stereotyped against. This article will surely make you consider giving K-pop a listen.
1. Language Barrier
Most people are hesitant to listen to K-pop mainly because it is in a different language. However, the fact that we don’t understand it can make it all the more exciting. Additionally, you don’t need to understand a song’s lyrics to enjoy it. Music is a universal language that cannot be constrained by words. From the unique choreography to the groovy instrumentals, the language barrier is far too weak of an argument to discourage music lovers from enjoying the music.
2. Variety
Though ‘pop’ is in the name ‘K-pop’, K-pop is actually a big genre that contains many subgenres. You’re probably going to find a group that suits your particular music preferences and tastes. You can find a mix of hip-hop and rap through groups like Stray Kids or soloist Jessi. If you are really into pop and enjoy listening to love songs, Exo might be a group you should consider listening to. And if you’re more into slow, ballad-like songs then Mamamoo or BTOB might be the right fit for you. There is something curated for everyone in K-pop no matter what their music tastes are.
3. Songs and voices
K-pop is very similar to English music. This music genre is heavily influenced by western styles and sounds. Furthermore, it is highly unlikely that you will be disappointed by the vocal capabilities that these singers present. Due to singers having to train before getting the chance to debut, only those that have perfected their singing and dancing skills get to showcase their talents on the stage. Listening to K-pop might sound foreign at first, but you will soon start to see the similarities it has to the music you might consume everyday.
4. Choreographies
You don’t just listen to K-pop, you watch it too. Dancing plays a big role in K-pop performances. As mentioned K-pop is well known for the super catchy music, the flashy music videos and good vocals, but dancing is what unifies all these elements together. K-pop has a broad fusion of dance styles, more specifically, Hip-Hop, Jazz, and club style dance. If you’re into dancing, learning your favorite songs’ choreo can be a fun pass time.
5. Fandoms
Every K-pop group has a fandom name that usually has a special meaning related to the artists. These names and fan clubs are aimed at making the fans feel connected to their favorite artists. Some K-pop fandoms have even become as popular as the artists it is dedicated to, such as ‘ARMYs’ for BTS or ‘BLINKs’ for BlackPink. Some of the most common aspects of fan culture in K-pop involve the eager interactivity between artists and their fans. Take for instance fan chants, which is the act of fans reciting chants in the background alongside the performers, in rhythmic counterpoint to the song itself during live performances.
6. Concepts, eras, debuts, and comebacks
Concepts in K-pop are almost like themes, styles or sounds, and looks that K-pop groups utilize. Each K-pop group has their own specific concept which can play a big role in the reason you enjoy listening to their music. A group can have an overall aesthetic (concept), or the aesthetic can change when a new album is released, known as a comeback. For example, BlackPink clearly markets themselves as having the ‘girl crush’ concept. Concepts help catch the eyes of fans and non fans alike, thus making them invested in the group.
If this article has inspired you to give K-pop a quick listen, then check this K-pop playlist that has the best hits from 2021.
