Words by: Sydney Reyes
Art By: Simonnette Labiran 

We can’t talk about the pop culture of the last decade without mentioning the Asian representation that is Korean pop music, or K-pop for short.

Now part of the top ten biggest music markets in the world, Korean music has made a name for itself in the global scene. It is a rigorous, intricate and creative industry that gives higher visibility for Asian music to shine.

I am delighted to have the privilege of providing you with insider information on this enigmatic industry. To ease you into the world of Korean pop music, I have some debunks and recommendations for you, and together we will go on a journey to musical discovery.

It can be confusing at first, a whole new language. However, do not fret! This contributor’s expert knowledge is here to help you down the rabbit hole. I’ve been in the scene for six years, after all.

MYTHS BUSTED:

1. K-pop music does not go deep.

Totally untrue! As a matter of fact, heaps of K-pop songs tackle important topics such as mental health, following your dreams, and a lot of personal stories these idols—the term for stars—have gone through. Thoughtful “fan songs” also exist, where idols express love and gratitude to their fans. Many idols are also involved in making their music. You can see their hard work translated into these songs.

Here are a few examples of tracks with great messages and meanings:

G-Idle’s ‘Queencard’—Song on body positivity and self-empowerment

Agust D’s ‘Strange’ feat. RM—A social commentary on the negatives of capitalism

Mamamoo’s ‘Hip’—About being confident and soar- ing!

Stray Kids’ ‘My Pace’—Don’t compare yourself with others and take your time!

BTS’s ‘Silver Spoon’—Another social commentary on generational differences

Tomorrow x Together’s ‘MOA Diary’; Seventeen’s ‘Thanks’;
Lesserafim’s ‘Fearnot’—Some fan songs for their respective dedicated fandoms

2. K-pop idols become famous out of nowhere

Idols do not just debut out of the blue, fully skilled. They go through a meticulous process of training in order to reach the stage. Lessons in vocals, dance and rap are done to nurture the raw talent these trainees have. Once they are ready and chosen,
they can finally start making music—otherwise known

as “debut”. Some companies even broadcast this process as reality TV. This allows fans to connect with trainees long before they officially debut as idols, strengthening their fanbase early.

3. Male idols’ careers end after military enlist- ment

K-pop fans are more dedicated than you think.
All Korean, able-bodied men are required to go to the military and serve their country for at least 18 months. Honestly, as a fan, it feels like a long time without new music. Despite this, the wait will always be worth it when you see your favourite male idols again. They’ll emerge looking dashingly older (and bulked up) as ever. As someone who is also waiting for my favourites to return (looking at you, Jin *cries*), I know everything will be okay. This is a normal process for boy groups and their fans. But, I promise you, they bounce back.

Here are a few of my K-pop recommendations. They’re great songs for beginners, and each has different vibes so there is something for everybody. Give them a try!

BTS — ‘Home’
iKon—‘Love Scenario’

NewJeans — ‘Hurt’

Twice—‘The Feels’

IU—‘Palette’ feat. Gdragon

Red Velvet — ‘Bad Boy’