Do you have a preferred genre of music? Maybe you enjoy hip hop, country, or rock and roll. If you’re a fan of popular music, you may already be acquainted with the musical sensation that’s the subject of today’s Wonder of the Day. What are we discussing? K-pop, of course!
What exactly is K-pop? It’s a shortened form of Korean pop music. K-pop is a significant aspect of a phenomenon known as Hallyu, which translates to “Korean Wave.” Hallyu refers to the increasing influence of Korean culture worldwide. From food and film to gaming and music, Korean influence can be witnessed almost everywhere.
This hasn’t always been the case. For many years, radio and television in South Korea were heavily censored. This meant that the culture had limited opportunities to influence or be influenced by the rest of the world. However, in 1987, reforms relaxed censorship. Soon after, music and other forms of entertainment from around the world started pouring into South Korea.
With these new influences, South Korean pop music began to transform. In 1992, a band called Seo Taiji and Boys performed for the first time on a televised talent show. They quickly climbed to the top of the music charts in South Korea and remained there for 17 consecutive weeks. Many fans today consider Seo Taiji and Boys to be the first K-pop band.
Soon after, more musicians joined the K-pop movement. Bands like H.O.T. and solo artists like BoA released major hits. K-pop’s three major agencies—SM Entertainment, YG Entertainment, and JYP Entertainment—began recruiting more talent to launch both bands and solo careers.
What sets K-pop apart? It is characterized by catchy rhythms and exceptional dancing. Fashion also plays a central role in the success of a K-pop star. The entertainment agencies in the industry work diligently to produce high-quality videos that quickly gain popularity on the internet.
Are you curious about how people become K-pop stars? For most, it starts in childhood. Kids in South Korea who aspire to become famous audition between the ages of 10 and 12. If they are chosen by a music agency, they enroll in a specialized school.
At these schools, they learn more than just reading, history, math, and science. They train in singing and dancing for several hours each day, hoping to become K-pop stars. Once they become part of a band or debut as a solo artist, K-pop musicians sing and record music videos for songs created by their agency.
Do you ever dream of being famous? It may not always be the life you imagine. K-pop stars often have to sign contracts that regulate more than just their careers. These contracts may have specific requirements for each star’s private, public, and dating life.
Nevertheless, many believe it’s worth it. For kids who dream of stardom, it might be. Many K-pop stars become famous not only in South Korea but also worldwide. Videos like Psy’s “Gangnam Style” have become global sensations. And he’s not the only one—BTS, Stray Kids, Twice, EXO, 2NE1, and BLACKPINK are just a few K-pop groups that have achieved international success.
Are you a fan of K-pop? What are your favorite groups and solo artists? If you haven’t listened to K-pop, consider giving it a chance. You might just discover your new favorite genre of music!
Give It a Shot
Continue learning with the assistance of an adult and try one or more of these activities:
- Discover more about these 10 famous K-pop artists and bands. Which ones are you most intrigued by? Would you be interested in seeing them perform live? Explain your thoughts to a friend or family member.
- Explore further about South Korea. Now, pretend that you have been tasked with creating a travel brochure for the country. What essential information should people know before visiting South Korea? Include the most captivating facts you have learned and make sure to include visually appealing pictures. Share your completed brochure with a friend or family member.
- What unanswered questions do you still have about K-pop? How about other aspects of South Korean culture? Make a list of your inquiries and ask an adult to assist you in finding answers. Begin by searching for more information online or at your local library.
Sources of Wonder
- https://ontheaside.com/music/a-brief-history-of-k-pop/ (accessed 08 Sept. 2020)
- https://www.vox.com/culture/2018/2/16/16915672/what-is-kpop-history-explained (accessed 08 Sept. 2020)
- https://mixandmusic.com/what-is-kpop/ (accessed 08 Sept. 2020)
FAQ
1. What is K-Pop?
K-Pop, short for Korean Pop, is a genre of popular music originating from South Korea. It encompasses a wide range of musical styles, including dance-pop, hip hop, R&B, and electronic music. K-Pop is characterized by its catchy melodies, synchronized dance routines, and elaborate music videos.
2. How did K-Pop become popular worldwide?
K-Pop’s rise to global popularity can be attributed to a combination of factors. The advent of social media and video sharing platforms allowed K-Pop music videos to reach a wider international audience. Additionally, dedicated fan communities and fan-driven events, such as K-Pop concerts and fan meetings, helped to create a strong global fanbase. K-Pop agencies also actively promoted their artists internationally through collaborations and strategic marketing campaigns.
3. Who are some popular K-Pop groups?
There are numerous popular K-Pop groups that have gained international recognition. Some of the most well-known ones include BTS, EXO, Blackpink, TWICE, and Red Velvet. These groups have achieved significant success both in South Korea and abroad, with millions of fans worldwide.
4. What makes K-Pop different from Western pop music?
K-Pop has its unique characteristics that set it apart from Western pop music. One notable difference is the emphasis on synchronized dance routines, where groups of performers execute intricate choreography with precision. K-Pop also places a strong emphasis on visuals, with elaborate music videos and stylish fashion. Furthermore, K-Pop often incorporates elements of Korean culture, language, and aesthetics into its music and performances.
5. How can I get into K-Pop?
If you’re interested in getting into K-Pop, there are several ways to start. You can begin by exploring popular K-Pop groups and their discographies on streaming platforms. Watching music videos and live performances can also give you a better understanding of the genre. Following K-Pop news websites and fan communities can help you stay updated on the latest releases and events. Attending K-Pop concerts or dance workshops can also provide an immersive experience and allow you to connect with fellow fans.
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