What is K-pop and why am I hearing so much about it?
K-pop is a genre of music that – brace yourself – originated in South Korea and blends pop, hip-hop, R&B and electronica, all filtered through an east Asian prism. The music tends to be upbeat and maximalist: in the K-pop universe, bigger is generally better.
As to why it’s having a moment here now, well, the primary reason is the success of the Netflix film K-Pop Demon Hunters, which brings together the two buzzy genres of K-pop and anime-style cartoons from Japan.
So it’s really just an internet thing?
Not really. The tribute show K-Pop Forever! comes to Ireland next March (Dublin) and June (Cork), and is on course to be a sell-out. Meanwhile, Blackpink, the biggest all-female K-pop band, played two sold-out nights at Wembley in the UK in August. And there are expectations that K-pop boyband BTS will announce a 2026 tour. They’ve never played in Ireland – but did sell out Wembley in 2019.
What’s the appeal?
K-pop acts tend to be wholesome – you can take your kids to a show without fear of risqué dancing in the mode of Sabrina Carpenter. Synchronised moves and high production values are a priority, whether that be in videos or live concerts. They also put in the hours: when Blackpink played in London, they were on stage for nearly three hours, while BTS regularly play for two to three hours. Among western artists, only Taylor Swift and Bruce Springsteen demonstrate that level of dedication.
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Is that it?
K-pop acts also share Taylor Swift’s understanding that it isn’t enough to release catchy songs – you have to forge a deeper connection with your fanbase. Swift does so by putting “Easter eggs” into her lyrics and album artwork and by hosting events – such as her recent Life of a Showgirl release film – that make her audience feel they’re part of something bigger than just another album hitting streaming platforms. K-pop groups do likewise – whether that is by interacting with fans via Q&A sessions on social media or by even setting up their own social media platforms.
Who are the most prominent K-pop artists?
In terms of their profile among western artists, BTS and Blackpink are way ahead. BTS have collaborated with Coldplay on the single My Universe, and Blackpink feature on the soundtrack to series two of Wednesday on Netflix. However, the true pioneer of the genre is Psy, who introduced K-pop to the world with Gangnam Style in 2012.
Meanwhile, Blackpink member Rosé had one of the biggest hits of 2024 with her Bruno Mars team-up Apt –named after a Korean drinking game and winner of Song of the Year at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs).
