To begin, K-Pop, the term, is an abbreviation for Korean pop music, and typically South Korean pop music at that. However, to simply say that K-pop is a Korean version of pop music is a rather limiting and inaccurate definition of the music trend that’s making its mark all across the world; America, Canada, and India to name a few.
By: Nicole Kirichanskaya
Some people may be wondering why a type of music that is in a language the majority of the world is unable to speak or understand (unlike American or Latin music) has become so popular abroad, but for any fan (long-time or new) who’s listened to almost any form of K-pop in the ten years or so can tell you, there is something special about this particular genre of music.
First off, K-pop is one of the only type of music out there that performs the same song in multiple languages, oftentimes there is also a Japanese, Chinese, or English version of a K-pop song produced; so as to create better global reach and business reach with the music.
Second, K-pop, aside from India, American, and some Latin music videos, is one of the most colorful and inventive forms of music, both composition-wise and performance-wise, out there today.
From extensively color-coordinated outfits, crazy/cute hair and make-up styles (on both the male and female performers, as many K-pop performers tend to be gender neutral in the way they present themselves), and action-filled music videos (often with so many scene changes that you have to go back to catch every detail), a K-pop is a visual experience unlike anything else you’ve ever seen.
Which is exactly why K-pop’s popularity isn’t exclusively tied to the country of its origin. Aside from Korea, K-pop has been making its presence in known in countries all around the world like America, France, Australia, China and even India. Despite many fans having to look up translations to the lyrics, every fan of k-pop can agree that there is something unique and aesthetically/vocally pleasing about listening to k-pop. It also doesn’t hurt that many k-pop artists, such as G-Dragon from the group Big Bang or independent artist Jay Park, have collaborated or performed with popular artists like Justin Bieber, Ne-Yo, Akon, and more; a further example of how K-pop music has extended it’s global reach.
As I mentioned earlier, it would be inaccurate to think K-pop is limited to pop music (think of pop singers like Katy Perry or Ariana Grande). Like any other country, Korean music comes in a variety of different sub-genres, from R & B and old-school hip-hop (which is often a source of heavy influence in k-pop singles), to sugary pop hits and more. So before you make a rash judgment, and say that you aren’t into K-pop, you might want to take a look for yourself before you make a final decision.
K-Pop, with it’s synchronized dance moves, stunningly coordinated outfits, and incredibly attractive idols (a term used to reference Korean celebrities, and can refer to singers, actors, models, etc.), has become so culturally popular, both in Korea and multiple countries abroad, that it simply isn’t a type of music anymore, but also a way of life. Be it with edgy, incredibly well-synchronized music videos to the amazingly well-coordinated outfits and make-up, which can be pretty extensive considering how many members can be in one K-pop group alone, K-Pop is a trend that has definitely made its mark outside of South Korea and into the minds and hearts of fans all across the globe.
Aren’t catching on the craze yet? You must have missed the video above.
-NK
