K-pop is a global phenomenon that, despite gaining popularity in the Western world, still remains misunderstood by some.
Music is one of the most personal and subjective art forms: the artist's voice, the lyrics of a verse, and a guitar solo that scratches something in the brain, bringing back past life experiences and distant memories. Many people do not listen to K-pop simply because they have different musical tastes, which is understandable and respectable, while others take every opportunity to question it. In fact, there are some objective elements that make this genre easily criticized by less patient listeners. Let’s discover them together!
K-pop: a genre that is often misunderstood
The first reason is evidently linguistic, at least at a European level. Korean is certainly not one of the most well-known languages, and unless one has a particular passion for that specific culture, it can be difficult to approach. To this, we add socio-cultural and anthropological elements, as the human brain tends to reject what is not immediately clear. This happens especially today, in the digital age, where we are used to having everything instantly without requiring critical effort.
Such resistance to K-pop is not just a matter of linguistic or cultural barriers but is also influenced by stereotypes and racist prejudices. Some describe it as artificial or "too manufactured," ignoring the discipline and dedication that artists put into every performance. Such comments are not merely musical critiques but rather a rejection of non-Western artistic expressions, as the fear of the unknown generates hate and contempt.
However, looking at the same issue from another perspective, it is precisely its apparent inaccessibility that represents K-pop's richness. In fact, it is a genre of music that, to be appreciated, does not immediately require an understanding of the lyrics. Upon first listen, the songs are catchy, the melody is mesmerizing and energizing, and the refinement of the sound is incredible. The artists' undeniable professionalism is evident, as it is much more challenging to move people's hearts with just the sound of one's voice rather than with words, which are immediately perceptible to listeners.
At a deeper level of analysis, the songwriting is extraordinary, and some lyrics are truly poetic. This highlights how K-pop can be a complete art form, capable of combining different disciplines: music, dance, visual storytelling, and performance. Perhaps, in reality, it is fair that K-pop is not a music genre appreciated by everyone. Sometimes it requires patience and dedication, as well as a critical spirit that only the most curious minds possess. Of course, as previously mentioned, there are those who simply have different musical tastes and, after informing themselves, respectfully choose not to listen to it. This selectivity makes K-pop special, as if it were a cultural and emotional journey that invites us to explore the unknown, break down prejudices, and recognize the beauty that exists in differences.
We'll leave you with the music of LE SSERAFIM, one of the most famous Korean girl groups. :)