K-POP

THE POPULARITY OF KOREAN POP MUSIC
Members of the K-pop group NewJeans posing together

A Brief Overview

K-pop, short for "Korean popular music," is a dynamic genre that originated in South Korea in the 1990s, evolving from earlier influences like Western dance music, hip-hop, R&B, and rock. While it began as a youth subculture, K-pop has since become a global phenomenon, distinguished by its catchy melodies, high-energy performances, and visually striking music videos. Idol groups—carefully trained in singing, dancing, and even foreign languages—are at the heart of K-pop, captivating audiences with their polished skills and charismatic stage presence.

What makes K-POP K-POP?

Idol System and Global Strategy

K-pop is renowned for its synchronized choreography, elaborate stage productions, and trendsetting fashion. Music videos are produced with cinematic flair, often featuring vibrant colors, creative concepts, and storytelling elements that keep fans engaged. South Korean entertainment companies, sometimes called "idol factories," meticulously train young talents for years, preparing them for both domestic and international markets. This strategic approach, combined with the inclusion of international members in groups, makes K-pop accessible and relatable to fans worldwide.

Members of the K-pop group BlackPink posing together
Members of the K-pop group BTS posing together

K-POP AS HYBRIDIZE MUSIC

K-pop's hybridization is central to its global success. The genre's ability to adapt and integrate musical and cultural elements from around the world has allowed it to transcend national boundaries. K-pop producers and artists often draw inspiration from Western and Asian music trends, localize them for Korean audiences, and then re-export them globally—a process that exemplifies cultural hybridization. This approach leads to music that feels both uniquely Korean and universally appealing.

WHY ARE GLOBAL FANS FACINATED WITH K-POP?

Members of the K-pop group Stray Kids posing together
Every K-pop song that entered Billboard's 'Hot 100' up to 2021

BILLBOARD MUSIC CHARTS

The rise of K-pop on the Billboard Hot 100 began with PSY's viral hit “Gangnam Style” in 2012, which peaked at #2 and introduced global audiences to the genre. However, it was BTS who transformed K-pop from a viral phenomenon into a chart-dominating force. Starting with “Dynamite” in 2020—BTS's first English-language single that topped the chart for three weeks and stayed for 32—they followed up with other #1 hits like “Butter,” “Life Goes On,” and their remix of “Savage Love.” Their success stemmed from a powerful global fandom, smart digital engagement, and relatable themes, allowing them to break language barriers and redefine what global pop success looks like. By 2021, BTS had firmly established K-pop as a staple on the Billboard charts.

BTS NOMINATION IMPACT

In 2024, K-pop artist BTS did not receive any nominations at the Billboard Music Awards. The group went on hiatus in October 2022 in order to fulfill mandatory military service and focus on their solo careers. As such, they have not released any group albums since June 2022. This brings them to a total of 17 nominations and 12 wins. Having debuted in 2013, BTS rose to worldwide fame around 2017, and began attending music award shows in the U.S., the largest music market on the planet. They are one of the most popular and successful Korean acts of all time.

CONCLUSION

The graph shows that from 2017 to 2022, both the percentage of nominations and wins for BTS at the Billboard Music Awards increased significantly, peaking around 2021 and 2022. This upward trend aligns with the overall growth in the number of award categories, suggesting being nominated and winning in major Billboard Music Awards categories like Top Duo/Group, Top Social Artist, and Top Selling Song has cemented BTS's global influence, marking a historic shift in how K-pop is recognized and celebrated on the world stage.. However, after 2022, there is a sharp decline in both nominations and wins, dropping to zero by 2023 and 2024. This decline likely corresponds with the members of BTS fulfilling mandatory military service, which has reduced the group's activities and visibility in the American music industry. When they return from service, it is anticipated that BTS will regain traction and once again become a prominent force in both the American and global music scenes.