The rise of K-pop in SA

Most of you are unaware that you have already been exposed to it with songs like Gangnam Style, artists like BTS and BLACKPINK or even through TikTok.

Despite BTS and BLACKPINK being two of the biggest groups in K-pop there is still quite a variety  of exciting talented groups such as Twice, EXO, and Seventeen. K-pop may be known for their groups but there are solo artists like IU, Jay Park, and Jessie.

 K-pop groups are unique not only when it comes to their music but also their concepts. For example, the girl group Aespa is known for their futuristic/animation concept within their videos. It is not just the music videos but also the meaning behind the songs that connect with fans across the world, transcending  the language barrier. 

K-pop has its own lingo, and you’ll often hear words such as bias, bias wrecker, stan, idol and sasaengs. Bias meaning your favourite member in the group that you can relate to. Bias wrecker meaning a different member that may tempt you into making them your new bias. A stan is a fan that is obsessed  in a way that is not dangerous. Idol is a very well-known term used in the K-pop community which refers to all K-pop artists. Sasaeng is known as a “fan” that obsesses in a way that is dangerous and can even be illegal. 

Although each K-pop group has their own distinct fandom, fans are generally united throughout. The striking visuals across all their content, the unique concert experience and the way idols dedicate themselves to their fans are just a few of K-pop's alluring appeals. Content such as vlogs, practice videos and comebacks allow a more intimate relationship to foster.

K-pop has taken the world by storm and has now reached UCT radio where we will get to appreciate this cultural phenomenon.