K-pop, or Korean Pop music, is a vibrant and influential genre that has taken the global music scene by storm.
Characterized by its catchy melodies, high-production value, visually stunning choreography, and an array of talented artists, K-pop is more than just music—it’s a cultural phenomenon.
In this article, we’ll learn more about what makes K-pop unique, its origins, and the key elements that have pushed it to international fame.
Below is a free PDF guide for “What is Kpop” that you can download and take with you:
Contents
- 1 Quick Summary
- 2 What does Kpop stand for?
- 3 Kpop History – When did Kpop start?
- 4 What is a K-pop idol?
- 5 Why is Korean Pop Music So Popular?
- 6 How did K-pop become a worldwide phenomenon?
- 7 What is the Hallyu Wave and how does it relate to K-pop?
- 8 How to Become a K-pop Idol?
- 9 How to Get into Kpop?
- 10 K-Pop Idol System
- 11 Korean Music Genres
- 12 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- 13 What to learn next
- 14 Wrap Up
Quick Summary
- ✅K-pop started developing in the 1950s and became what it is today in the 1990s
- ✅It includes many styles like pop, rock, hip-hop, and electronic music, influenced heavily by American pop.
- ✅K-pop is known for its energetic dance routines, catchy songs, and eye-catching music videos.
- ✅Artists like BTS and PSY have made K-pop popular across the globe, showing that music can bridge cultural differences.
What does Kpop stand for?
Kpop stands for Korean popular music. It is most commonly known as K-pop which is mainstream music that originated in South Korea.
K-pop music in the country could be considered similar to Taylor Swift in the United States.
You may see Korean pop written as K-pop, K pop, Kpop, K-Pop, and KPOP.
What is Kpop music?
The term K-pop includes many different musical elements and other genres under its umbrella. Along with Korean pop, it can also include Korean rock music, hip hop, and electronic music. K-pop is considered a fairly new form of music. The type of Kpop music that you’re listening to today was formed around the 1990s.
The roots of K-pop began in the 1950s, however, and have since then already been influenced a lot by different types of Western music and pop groups. American pop music culture has especially had – and still does have – an effect on K-Pop.
What is Kpop in Korean?
Earlier, we learned Kpop means Korean popular music. However, Kpop in Korean is 대중음악 (daejungeumak). This term literally means pop music. But, this term can be a bit formal or literary, so many young people use 가요 (gayo) instead, which means song.
Kpop in Korean can also be called 대중가요 (daejunggayo).
What is Kpop in Hangeul?
K-pop in Hangeul is written as 케이팝 (keipap).
What are some distinctive features of K-pop?
A lot of different genres are used to create different K-pop music concepts. Just like how most Kpop groups have a designated rapper, and how English phrases are mixed into the song’s South Korean lyrics. This is said to have started by the South Korean-American idols, like Fly to the Sky, who wanted to showcase their English fluency in their music.
K-pop choreographies mostly rely on hard-hitting, synchronized movements, with members switching positions multiple times in a routine. This is a strategy called 자리바꿈 (jaribaggum), or “formation changing” in English.
The movements are also planned to be repetitive and addicting to look at, matching the concept of each song. The term for this is 포인트 안무 (pointeu anmu), or “point dance.” which made some dances and songs go especially viral.
For example, Psy’s “Gangnam Style,” Super Junior’s “Sorry Sorry,” INFINITE’s “Be Mine,” Brown Eyed Girls’ “Abracadabra,” and Blackpink’s “DDU DU DDU DU” all featured choreography that has made each song incredibly memorable. Apart from this, the groups’ or artists’ eye-catching outfits used in performances and music videos are equally important.
Kpop History – When did Kpop start?
Unlike other musical genres, contemporary K-pop start can be pinpointed to a certain date: April 11th of 1992, when the group Seo Taiji and Boys performed their music on TV for the first time.
What was the first Kpop group in Korea?
Seo Taiji and Boys is considered the first Kpop group in Korea as they are closely similar to the Kpop groups we have now. The group was active in the mid-1990s and was known for experimenting with different music genres. For example, they were the pioneers of integrating rap into K-pop.
This was the driving force that also led to the formation of all your favorite pop groups in the Korean music industry, with SM Entertainment being established in 1995, JYP Entertainment in 1997, and YG Entertainment in 1998.
The very first group in K-Pop to exist was H.O.T., which debuted in 1996. The group has been credited as the group that started Korean pop culture, a formula that is still followed today. And with the emergence of BoA and TVXQ on the scene in 2003, the popularity of K-pop truly soared.
What is a K-pop idol?
K-pop idols are artists and groups formed by various entertainment companies creating catchy K-pop music and targeting younger audiences. The music groups are formed from a group of people who are all particularly talented in at least one of the following: singing, rapping, and dancing.
If you’re still completely new to Kpop music, then think of pop bands such as One Direction, Little Mix, and Fifth Harmony in the West: they’re close to the concept of idols!
These idols often enter the entertainment company in their teens and then train hard for years in areas like singing, rapping, dancing, and foreign language. Then, if they are lucky and talented enough, by the end of their teens, they will be picked for an idol group.
The groups in the K-pop industry then periodically come out with music singles and albums filled with catchy tunes. Every week they’ll go to many music shows to perform their lead single for a period of one month to two months. Although the song is important, special care and attention are always put into styling the group members, a well-synched choreography, and a high-quality music video.
This combination tells the story of the chosen style concept for each era. Some could say these entertainment companies work like manufacturers in assembling the perfect idol group outlook and style for each cycle of performing and promoting the music.
Get “What is Kpop” Free PDF Guide
Popular Kpop Idols and Idol Groups
There are new South Korean pop idol groups debuting each month, and the public’s opinion on which group is the best changes accordingly. It is also typical for idol groups to make music and promote together for up to 10 years, then move on to other careers like becoming a solo artist or an actor.
However, some idol groups have been more successful and longer-lasting. Some groups are so famous that many different generations of K-pop listeners know them!
We’ve listed some of the most popular K-pop groups and artists, along with the most popular songs. You’ll find them in the sections below. These popular groups vary in their music genre, the number of group members, image, and generally, their style. But they all create quality music, dance, and performance.
Famous Kpop girl groups
Girls’ Generation is a great example of this. They have had a long career as the top girl group in K-pop, with incredibly catchy songs and concepts. For example, if you listen to the song “Gee!”, you’ll have it on repeat in your head for at least a full day!
Another huge group is Wonder Girls. They haven’t been as active as the Girls’ Generation, and they don’t have as many famous songs, either, but their hit song “Nobody” is one of the biggest K-pop songs ever made.
Girl Groups
The top K-Pop girl groups include both well-known names and rising stars. Here are twelve popular groups today:
- BLACKPINK
- aespa
- (G)I-DLE
- ITZY
- IVE
- TWICE
- NewJeans
- LE SSERAFIM
- BabyMonster
- Billlie
- Kiss of Life
- ILLIT
Famous Kpop boy groups
Among boy groups, the two most famous ones in South Korea have always been Dong Bang Shin Ki (also known as TVXQ) and Big Bang. Dong Bang Shin Ki once had the biggest fan club with K-pop fans in the world and is well known on the internet.
The Korean pop boy band Big Bang has a unique style that is easy to get hooked on, with their music evolving to something different with each new album. Now they have paved the way for newer groups, but their style and music will not be forgotten for a long time.
And then there is one of the most popular groups of all time, BTS. This group has been an even bigger smash hit in the USA and other countries than it has been in South Korea.
Boy Groups
The top K-Pop boy groups include a mix of well-known names and rising stars. Here are twelve of the most popular groups:
- Stray Kids
- ENHYPEN
- BTS
- TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT)
- ATEEZ
- P1Harmony
- RIIZE
- SEVENTEEN
- BOYNEXTDOOR
- CIX
- AB6IX
- ASTRO
Get “What is Kpop” Free PDF Guide
Famous K-pop artists
These K-pop artists either originally came from a girl or a boy pop group or created names for themselves as solo artists from the start. Either way, they have proved that they produce some of the best K-pop music there is!
Solo Artists
The top K-Pop solo artists include both well-known stars and emerging talents. They are making waves in the K-Pop world with their unique styles and talents. Here are ten standout solo artists:
- Jennie (BLACKPINK)
- Jisoo (BLACKPINK)
- IU
- Taeyeon (Girls’ Generation)
- Jimin (BTS)
- Jungkook (BTS)
- Taemin (SHINee)
- Crush
- BIBI
- Cha Eunwoo (ASTRO)
Why is Korean Pop Music So Popular?
The music industry in South Korea, specifically K-pop, has grown so popular since the early 2000s because of the internet and the evolution of social media. The more accessible South Korean music has become in the world, the more popular it has become. Slowly, they appear not only on social media but in different countries’ local news and television shows.
K-pop’s characteristics which are synchronized dance moves, simple songs with addicting hooks, and the outer beauty of all of the K-pop groups’ members, contribute to this feat. Some of these idols are even popular in dramas as the OST’s singers and the star that played the characters themselves.
Each new K-pop group debuting, and each comeback (the K-pop group or solo singers coming out with new material), is hyped in the media, with a specific concept and hook to get the general population excited to consume the new music.
Additionally, it is more common for K-pop groups to do things for K-pop fans, like performing in music shows, throwing together fan signing events, attending variety shows, and even arranging more private fan meetings than it is for them to hold tours.
What are the most popular K-pop songs?
Below is a list of the top K-pop songs. We also have a separate article about K-pop songs for other song recommendations.
- Wonder Girls: “Nobody” (2008)
- Girls’ Generation: “Gee” (2009)
- Super Junior: “Sorry, Sorry” (2009)
- 2NE1: “I Am the Best” (2011)
- Psy: “Gangnam Style” (2012)
- BIGBANG: “Fantastic Baby” (2012)
- EXO: “Growl” (2013)
- TWICE: “TT” (2016)
- BLACKPINK: “DDU-DU DDU-DU” (2018)
- BTS: “Dynamite” (2020)
- Stray Kids: “God’s Menu” (2020)
- BTS: “Butter” (2021)
- aespa: “Next Level” (2021)
- TWICE: “The Feels” (2021)
- IVE: “Eleven” (2021)
- ITZY: “LOCO” (2021)
- BLACKPINK: “Pink Venom” (2022)
- NewJeans: “Attention” (2022)
- LE SSERAFIM: “ANTIFRAGILE” (2022)
- TXT: “Good Boy Gone Bad” (2022)
How did K-pop become a worldwide phenomenon?
There have been various attempts by different music companies in South Korea to break into the international music markets, especially in the United States. The world only got to know K-pop when Psy’s “Gangnam Style” hit the radio all around the world in the summer of 2012.
Many years ago, if you were lucky, you could maybe attend a small club concert by your favorite K-pop artists if you lived in Asia, Europe, or Brazil. But now you can also see groups like Blackpink perform their music at Coachella!
BTS
For a few years, K-pop popularity seemed like a fluke, but now that the world has gone crazy over BTS, we can finally call K-pop a worldwide phenomenon! This K-pop boy group was a big tool with which K-pop became a truly worldwide phenomenon after BTS became popular in the United States.
What does BTS stand for (Kpop Group)?
BTS stands for Bangtan Soneyondan, which translates to “Bulletproof Boy Scouts.” BTS is a seven-member boy group also called “Bangtan Boys” under the entertainment company Big Hit Entertainment.
Why is BTS so popular?
One of the many reasons why BTS has been explained to have become so popular is because of the message in their songs. Many find them more relatable than some other groups, as their music is more about bullying and mental health than love.
Also, these performers have used different tactics from different groups. Instead of relying on staying relevant by appearing on South Korean TV shows all the time, each group member has been active on social media to reach their audience all around the world.
This has eventually earned them awards and recognitions, including having the number 1 spot in the Hot 100 Chart on Billboard multiple times.
K-pop in Television
Some American TV shows and movies have also begun using Korean songs in their scenes. For example, the TV show Lucifer used the popular SHINee song “Lucifer” in one of their episodes. And there is a scene in the DC Comics blockbuster movie Justice League where Blackpink’s music was played.
Why is K-pop unique?
While K-pop music with its groups is quite different from Western pop music especially, it’s easy to see why many people have become addicted to it now. The melodies are catchy, the choreographies are impressive, and the group members are beautiful to the eye.
There is usually a lot of effort also put into making the MVs look cool and high quality, even when it’s just the group members dancing. The groups have specific styles to help them stand out.
There is a special Korean slang term called 칼군무 (kalgunmu) which means “dancing perfectly in sync.” You can use this to describe your favorite K-pop performers.
The word 칼군무 (kalgunmu) is written in Hangul, the Korean Alphabet. If you don’t know how to read it yet, you can learn using this guide in about 1 hour.
What is the Hallyu Wave and how does it relate to K-pop?
Also called the Korean Wave, Hallyu Wave means the increased popularity of South Korean culture globally. This phenomenon began in the early 1990s.
K-pop is included as one part of the Hallyu Wave, but it also includes dramas, movies, and, more recently, Korean cosmetics. The Hallyu Wave first became popular in East Asia, but today you can see it impacting present cultures, music and film and television, and the interest and behavioral habits of people all around the world.
How to Become a K-pop Idol?
Typically, to become a K-pop idol or artist, you will have to train with an entertainment agency for years. Although you are expected to have talents in singing and dancing upon auditioning for the company, once accepted, you will spend several hours every day training those skills.
In addition, you will usually take classes in foreign languages, such as Japanese and English, and be taught other skills. For example, interviewing skills may be among the training programs you will undergo.
Usually, you’ll already become a trainee to a company when you’re still of school age, even before turning 18. During the training period and early on into your idol career, you are expected to live in a dormitory with the other trainees in the company.
How to Get into Kpop?
To get into K-pop yourself, a good place to start is by exploring the most popular and modern K-pop groups and artists. This way, you can find some new favorites, particularly the type of K-pop you like the most. Then, when you have identified that, you can find more groups with a similar sound!
For example, Spotify is a great tool for that, as it offers recommendations on each artist’s page. Here is a list of the best K-pop groups so that you can get started on your musical journey.
K-Pop Idol System
The K-Pop idol system is a structured way of creating and managing pop stars in South Korea. It has evolved since the 1990s and includes these main parts:
Trainee Selection
The K-Pop idol journey begins with a rigorous selection process where aspiring idols are chosen based on auditions. These auditions can range from street casting to global talent searches, and successful candidates sign contracts with entertainment agencies.
Training Process
Once selected, trainees undergo intense training to develop their singing, dancing, and acting skills. This comprehensive training also includes personal grooming and media skills to prepare them for the competitive K-Pop industry.
Debut and Management
After training, trainees are evaluated, and those deemed ready to debut in strategically formed idol groups. These groups are then heavily promoted through various media to quickly build a strong fanbase and achieve commercial success.
Cultural Impact
The K-Pop idol system has significantly influenced South Korea’s music scene and global pop culture, contributing to the widespread success of K-Pop around the world. Despite its success, the system faces criticism for the high pressures and unrealistic standards placed on young performers.
Korean Music Genres
Korean music includes a variety of genres that mix traditional and modern styles. Here are some popular and traditional music genres in South Korea:
Popular Music Genres
- K-Pop
- Ballad
- Hip-Hop
- R&B
- Indie
- Rock
- Trot
- Original Soundtracks (OSTs)
Traditional Music Genres
- Traditional Korean Music
- Shaman Music
Korean music is a rich blend of traditional and modern elements, creating a unique and evolving sound. You can know more about each of these Korean music genres here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In this section, we’ll cover the questions frequently asked about K-Pop.
What did K-Pop mean?
K-Pop means Korean pop which is a popular music genre that comes from South Korea. It’s marked by a fusion of Western sounds with an Asian aspect of performance.
It covers not only music but also dance, fashion, and a distinctive visual style in music videos and performances.
What does K in K-Pop stand for?
The ‘K’ in K-pop stands for Korean. This label differentiates it from other forms of pop music by highlighting its origin in South Korea.
It emphasizes the Korean influences in the music, performances, and styles that are part of this musical movement.
Why do people like K-Pop so much?
People are drawn to K-pop for several reasons.
- Musical Elements – K-Pop songs are known for high-energy beats, catchy tunes, and synchronized dance moves that contribute to dynamic performances.
- Visual Appeal – It offers lively music videos and distinctive fashion styles.
- Diverse Themes – It produces a wide variety of themes and concepts, often addressing relatable subjects for young people globally.
- Close Fan-Idol Interaction – This is made possible through social media and fan events.
- Strengthened Loyalty – These interactions build loyalty and deepen emotional connections between fans and K-pop artists.
Is K-Pop good or bad?
Labeling K-pop as good or bad depends on individual preferences. Here are the following things that K-pop has been praised for:
- innovative integration of different musical styles
- training system that produces polished performers
- global appeal that bridges cultural gaps
However, it has also faced criticism. Here are some of the criticisms it got:
- setting high and strict beauty standards
- overworking its artists
- intense pressure on the trainee system
How you see K-Pop depends on personal values and preferences in music and performance art.
How old is K-Pop?
K-pop started in the early 1990s when Seo Taiji and Boys came onto the scene in 1992. They changed South Korean music by mixing in Western styles. This means K-pop has been evolving for over three decades, growing from a national music genre to a global phenomenon.
Why is K-Pop important?
K-pop is important because it has become a cultural export for South Korea. It has contributed to the global influence of Korean culture, known as the Korean Wave or Hallyu.
Here are other things that K-Pop has helped promote:
- Korean culture
- Korean language
- products
It has also become a tool for soft power. It enhanced the country’s image and global standing.
Who created K-Pop?
K-pop didn’t just come from one person; it grew over time with lots of different artists adding to it.
However, the modern form of K-pop is often credited to the producer Lee Soo-man, founder of SM Entertainment. He’s seen as a key player in making K-pop what it is today by setting up how artists are trained and planning how it goes global.
Who is the king of K-Pop?
While there is no official title, the term “King of K-pop” is often linked to G-Dragon, a member of the boy band Big Bang. This is because of his influence and success in the music industry. He is recognized for his unique style, songwriting, and his role in shaping contemporary K-pop.
How has K-pop changed the world?
K-pop has made a big mark on the world! It’s not just about the music—it’s influenced fashion, videos, and even other types of music worldwide.
It’s helped people see how cool Asian pop music and cultures are. It has shaken up the usual Western pop scene.
Plus, it’s brought fans from all over together, no matter where they’re from or what language they speak. This has opened up a lot of doors for sharing and understanding different cultures.
Where is K-Pop most popular?
K-pop is very popular in East Asia and Southeast Asia. It has significant fan bases in China, Japan, and the Philippines.
Its popularity has also increased in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America. And cities like Tokyo, Bangkok, Los Angeles, and Paris, among others, frequently host K-pop concerts and events.
What to learn next
Now that you know all about Kpop, here are some related topics you might enjoy:
- K-Drama – Discover the world of K-Dramas, their history, popular shows, and why they are loved worldwide.
- Learn Korean – Find easy ways to start learning Korean, perfect for beginners.
- Korean Culture – Understand more about Korean traditions and customs often seen in K-Pop and K-Dramas.
- Kpop Idols – Get to know more about your favorite K-Pop idols, their journey, and their impact on global culture.
- Korean Fashion – Explore the trends and styles that influence K-Pop fashion and learn how to incorporate them into your wardrobe.
- K-Pop Songs – Find out more K-Pop songs that can help you learn Korean, with lyrics and translations.
Get “What is Kpop” Free PDF Guide
Wrap Up
If you enjoyed this, you may want to read about:
- Best KPop Groups of All Time
- Learn Korean with Kpop
- The Best Korean Dramas for Learning Korean
- Korean Drama Phrases
- Best Korean Movies for Learning Korean
Want more interesting Korean facts? Check out our article Facts About South Korea – 30 Interesting Things to Learn
Have you already listened to K-pop before? Let us know in the comments who your favorite idol and idol group are!
thank you your website helped me site information for my paper.????thanks so much????
You’re welcome, Lily! ^^ I’m glad that our article has been helpful to you.
There is a typo on the popular song. The BTS song name is “Boy with luv”, not “Boys”. However, the article is very informative.
감사합니다!
Thanks for letting us know! ^^ I’m glad that our article has been helpful to you. If you want to know more about the Korean language and culture, you can also check our blog and visit our YouTube channel for articles and videos with great Korean content.
cool, this helped a lot
Thanks for your comment! I’m glad that our article has been helpful to you. ^^ If you want, you can also check our check our blog and visit our YouTube channel for articles and videos with great Korean content.