K-pop recently celebrated its third decade since its inception in 1992 with Seo Taiji and Boys’ groundbreaking hit “Nan Arayo.” From being a niche genre, K-pop has now become a global phenomenon with a significant influence in various industries such as music, fashion, business, and technology, thanks to the Hallyu or Korean Wave. With its strong visual focus, diverse musical styles, impressive choreographies, and devoted fandoms, K-pop has expanded its reach far beyond South Korea.
While K-pop is known for its multi-member boy and girl groups, there are also soloists, duos, trios, and co-ed ensembles, catering to different music preferences. K-pop idols, as they are called, are highly skilled in singing, dancing, rapping, songwriting, and producing, thanks to years of rigorous training. Many idols even venture into other fields such as acting, modeling, and fashion designing, becoming ambassadors for high-end brands.
K-pop idols stay connected with their global fans through various means like tours, fan meetings, virtual meet-and-greets, and social media platforms, including K-pop-specific paid apps like HYBE’s Weverse and DearU’s Bubble. These factors have contributed to the worldwide growth of K-pop. In fact, according to the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry, eight out of the top 10 global album sales in 2022 were by K-pop acts like BTS, Stray Kids, and ENHYPEN.
Moreover, the stocks of K-pop’s largest companies, including HYBE, SM Entertainment, YG Entertainment, and JYP Entertainment, have seen a significant rise in the first quarter of 2023, outperforming the decline seen in Universal Music Group and Warner Music Group. K-pop has undeniably ascended to the upper echelons of the music industry in the past ten years, with accomplishments like BTS’s GRAMMY-nominated music video, Fifty Fifty’s viral hit “Cupid,” BLACKPINK headlining Coachella, and TWICE selling out Los Angeles’ SoFI Stadium.
Despite its remarkable success, K-pop is still often misunderstood. One reason for this is the portrayal of idols in the media, which may not reflect their true artistic abilities and the collaborative efforts behind their music. Additionally, stereotypes, misunderstandings, and personal preferences also contribute to the lack of appreciation for the true value of K-pop. Some may perceive self-producing singer/songwriters as more authentic, but K-pop idols are closely guided and coached by experienced professionals, resulting in their own unique successes.
In the end, the success of a K-pop hit depends on various factors. Vince, a singer/songwriter/producer under THEBLACKLABEL, believes that blending diverse cultural influences and emphasizing the right visuals are keys to success. Marion Van der wees, a manager/A&R consultant, mentions the importance of a catchy hook/chorus and danceable song with infectious choreography. Nayeon, a singer/songwriter and member of TWICE, highlights the role of luck, concept, choreography, and additional content. Adrian McKinnon, a songwriter and producer, emphasizes the importance of loving what you do to create growth. Lastly, Wonderkid, a songwriter/producer under BELIFT LAB, values the essence of “beauty” in high-quality music/art throughout different eras.
In conclusion, K-pop’s evolution over the past three decades has propelled it to global success and influence. Its irresistible charm lies in its diverse musical styles, impressive performances, and devoted fandoms. However, misconceptions and personal preferences still hinder the full appreciation of the true value of K-pop and its idols’ talents.
