To say that K-pop is a revolutionary art form would not be an exaggeration. In recent years, its multidimensional premise has crossed borders, captivating millions, and its biggest names – BTS and Blackpink – are among the most important luminaries of the moment.
One question that emerges then is why K-pop has gained so much traction. While this prestige has been building for a long period, the coronavirus pandemic was a juncture in which K-pop rose as an escapism to make isolation more bearable. Technology combined with music and the splendor of performances thus served as a push for its expansion.
And like all art, K-pop is a subjective conduit that conveys individual and collective perspectives that resonate with everyone who perceives it. It could also be described as a tool for social change, but this status is still debatable given certain criticisms surrounding this microcosm. Whatever the case, K-pop is here to stay and at Vogue, we took on the task of breaking down its idiosyncrasies.
What is K-pop?
In traditional definition, K-pop is an abbreviation of so-called Korean pop, a style of popular music that flourished in South Korea. But beyond being just a musical genre, K-pop can be classified as an ever-changing industry that has already marked an entire era in contemporary culture.
Where and when did K-pop emerge?
The origins of Korean pop music encapsulate different social and political strands that have shaped its structure, but the possible beginning of modern K-pop dates back to just over three decades ago. It was 1992 when a trio of young people – Seo Taiji, Yang Hyun-suk, and Lee Juno – caused a cultural whirlwind after presenting their divisive song Nan Arayo ( I Know in English) on a talent show organized by the MBC television network.
What was the first K-pop group?
Nan Arayo was a combination of new jack swing and rap (genres established by African-American musicians) that horrified the judging panel, but delighted the entire country given its daring formula that, in those days, was savored as a novelty. The impact was such that Nan Arayo remained unshaken for 18 consecutive weeks at the top of the South Korean music charts.
What is a K-pop idol?
The beginning of a K-pop artist‘s career, or idols (as they are usually called), is not when they first step onto the stage, but rather the time leading up to that moment. The real beginning is when they find an entertainment agency, and those who succeed in auditions become trainees. However, once inside, the competition is tough.
Idol hopefuls are subjected to a rigorous training system that includes classes in communication, modeling, dancing, singing, and languages, and their progress is evaluated regularly. Depending on the agency’s plans, this process is fluctuating and can last from months to years. In the end, only a few manage to achieve their dreams, as the chances of debuting are dramatically slim.
Why is K-pop popular?
Although this global phenomenon is based on different components, the main factor that governs it is its heterogeneous nature. Each project is unique and the imagination runs wild in the name of maximalism.
Visual power is undoubtedly one of the most attractive aspects given the level of quality of each release. It is common for groups to build their identity around multiverses or mythologies that fuel the industry’s originality, so music videos, powerful choreographies, and fashion are media that express these intricate messages. Everything works like a gear where the primary focus is always to deliver an innovative show.
What sets K-pop apart?
On the other hand, the backbone of music is a convergence of genres, and it gives a platform for experimentation and unconventional structures. Beautiful vocal harmonies, rich melodies, and rap verses in the middle of songs make K-pop, as Tom Hanks said in his iconic Forrest Gump character, comparable to a box of chocolates because ‘you never know what you’re going to get.’ American music producer Mike Daley, who has worked with big names like NCT, EXO, and Girls’ Generation, explains that this hybrid attribute is the key to the sonic magnetism that surrounds K-pop.
Whether it’s a quick switch to R&B chords or a mid-tempo section, there are always moments that keep the audience engaged and anticipating the next turn,’ she tells Vogue Mexico and Latin America exclusively. ‘Depending on the type of song, there might be a bridge or a dance break, and these are sections that aren’t usually part of Western pop.’
Behind the scenes are excellent creative minds ranging from composers, producers, choreographers, A&Rs, stylists, managers, and photographers who work countless hours to weave and perfect schemes at the request of entertainment companies. But in recent years, idols have also been gaining autonomy over the elements that make up their work and it is increasingly common to find members who contribute to the design of dance and musical compositions. Groups such as BTS, Stray Kids, PENTAGON, (G)I-DLE, and SEVENTEEN (to name a few) are notable for managing their recording material, which has also led to multiple collaborations with other artists inside and outside the industry.
Following the success of Seo Taiji and Boys, a new breed of artists entered the South Korean entertainment ecosystem. By then, businessman Lee Soo-man (a controversial and prominent figure in the development of K-pop) had already founded the legendary agency SM Entertainment, where he implemented the first idol training system based on the principles of the American record label Motown Records. In 1996, SM Entertainment debuted the quintet HOT (Highfive Of Teenagers), who would become legends alongside their sister groups Shinhwa and SES. Other groups also entered the scene such as Sechs Kies, god, Roo’Ra, and Fin.KL, thus inaugurating what is known as the first generation of K-pop.