From PSY’s “Gangnam Style” to KPop Demon Hunters‘ “Golden,” K-pop has become one of the fastest growing industries in the world. The K-pop industry is a highly managed $8 billion phenomena. It is driven by many factors, making it a unique music genre in the world. K-pop is a beautiful combination of western pop, hip hop, and EDM, along with a touch of Korean aesthetics to make fans remember the country of origin.
The Idol System:
Agencies recruit their artists mainly through auditions held by the entertainment companies. Most artists are recruited from countries such as South Korea, Japan, and China. Though these countries make up a high percentage of the idols, some are also recruited from other countries such as Australia and the US. After being selected in the auditions, idols go under rigorous training with long hours of practice and strict diets, all aiming for success. Although idols get different roles after being debuted into a group, they engage in different activities such as singing, dancing, and learning foreign languages during their years in training.
The Big Four Agencies:
K-pop has many agencies and centers which train idols every day, but the market is dominated by the big 4 agencies:
- YG Entertainment – Known for their distinctive hip hop/R&B sound, strong brand identity, and high-profile luxury brand partnerships. Key groups include BLACKPINK, BIGBANG, BABYMONSTER and Treasure.
- JYP Entertainment – Known for their strong performances, catchy music, and building loyal fanbases. Key groups include TWICE, Stray Kids, ITZY, NMIXX and Day6.
- HYBE – Known for their unmatched global strategy, multi-label system, and their massive capital. Key groups include BTS, Seventeen, NewJeans, TXT, Le Sserafim and Enhypen.
- SM Entertainment – Known for their elite vocal training and sophisticated music production. Key groups include NCT, aespa, EXO, Red Velvet, SHINee and Girls’ Generation.
Influence of K-pop Around the World:
As K-pop began to travel all over the world, it boosted South Korea’s overall international influence. It was like a cultural force, which reshaped both music, fashion, and even digital trends. Due to this, groups slowly began to rise and frequently top Billboard charts.
Though K-pop was just a music genre, it had a great effect on South Korea economically as well. The Korean Wave, also known as the Hallyu, had drastically changed South Korea’s image to the world, significantly increasing interest in Korean culture, language, and consumer products like skincare. It also had a great impact on the Asian community, inspiring many young girls and boys to engage in music and stage related professions.
There is so much to tell about K-pop and its amazing music, but the best way to know is through listening!
Here is a list of some of the best K-pop songs you must try if you want to experience this lively and unique genre:
- ROSÉ – “APT.”
- ILLIT – “Magnetic”
- aespa – “Drama”
- Stray Kids – “S-Class”
- Stray Kids – “LALALALA”
- BABYMONSTER – “BATTER UP”
- NMIXX – “Blue Valentine”
- BTS – “Dynamite”
- Jisoo – “Earthquake”
- TWICE – “Strategy”
- LE SERRAFIM – “Crazy”
Make sure to comment about which one you like! Enjoy listening!
