From niche pop music only predominantly seen in Korea to this growing global phenomenon, K-pop has captivated millions or even tens of millions of people around the world. K-pop has had success in multiple areas such as sold-out stadiums, chart-topping hits, and performances worldwide, in places like the Grammys, where it is heavily dominated by American artists. Their recent emergence has truly shown a testament to the artists’ dedication and aspirations of a growing music category. 

The appeal of K-pop lies in the catchy melodies, complex choreographies, and stunning visuals. With bands such as Blackpink, Stray Kids, and BTS, the bar for production quality has been set quite high with diverse influences from genres like hip-hop, pop, EDM and so much more. Each song that is released truly showcases the talent and the extensive, intense training these K-pop idols go through in order to become an artist in the first place. With each song having polished performances and visually appealing music videos, it is clear to see all the dedication and talent the artists have put in. Things like this truly resonate with fans around the world and people around Yorba Linda High School as well. Marisol Lustina (10) says, “I’ve been into K-pop since I was 11 or 12. I don’t know exactly what it was, but it was just different from the music that was popular at the time in general. Maybe it was the vibes, maybe it was the fun dances, maybe it was the personalities. All I know is that K-pop is a music genre that I love and one that people should seriously try out.” 

What has really helped K-pop grow is the use of social media. K-pop agencies have successfully used social media platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram to engage with global supporters and even people who aren’t fans of the artist or artists. In fact, I got into K-pop through a TikTok, a group called Stray Kids made during quarantine. These social media posts have also drawn in people to support and “stan” the artist due to their funny posts or vibes. On top of that, K-pop companies have also created websites and apps such as Bubble or Weverse to further help fans communicate directly with the artist. This breaks the barriers of typical artist and fan communications. With developments such as these, fans have been able to connect with artists in a way that hasn’t been done before which reinvents the traditional struggle of geography and language that comes with being a fan of an international artist. 

While being on social media helps artists gain followers, it isn’t something that truly helps them become popular in the music industry as much as collaborations do. Artists often collaborate to create a mix of music from both creators to appeal to a broader audience. Songs like “Boy with Luv” by BTS and Halsey or “Ice Cream” by BLACKPINK and Selena Gomez have caught the attention of people around the world. These partnerships often not only help K-pop become more appealing but also help people develop an appreciation for different music styles. These collaborations, while helping K-pop become mainstream, have allowed for performances by K-pop artists in American music shows like Ateez and Blackpink at Coachella and Stray Kids at the VMAs. 

Beyond that, most people listen to K-pop simply for the songs that are produced and the message that is conveyed in them. Many songs in K-pop address themes of self-acceptance, social-acceptance, and resilience. In a generation that often struggles with things like mental health and societal pressure, messages in these songs often reassure and comfort people. These messages can also help create positive changes and encourage to spread awareness about important topics by having a call of action. 

The industry overall has become so much more than what is was in the early 2000s, and as fans continue to embrace its diverse and vibrant sound and messages, it is clear that the genre has truly become a cultural force that has changed what it means to be an a music artist in the current generation with the amount of creativity and authenticity it has. The future of K-pop is unclear, but with the growing popularity it has around the world, there is no doubt that there is so much potential for K-pop to become a global sensation and remembered in music history.