The Rise of K-pop: From Subculture to Global Phenomenon

Yale Sociologist Explores the Cultural, Sociological, and Political Impact of K-pop

Introduction: Korean Pop, or K-pop, has evolved from a musical subculture in South Korea to a global cultural phenomenon. With its catchy hooks, polished choreography, grandiose live performances, and impeccably produced music videos, K-pop has gained immense popularity, topping the Billboard charts and generating billions of dollars. Yale sociologist Grace Kao, fascinated by the genre after watching a performance by BTS on Saturday Night Live, now studies the subgenres of K-pop and its impact on culture, society, and politics. In an interview with Yale News, Kao discusses her research, the significance of K-pop to Asian Americans, and the importance of embracing diverse musical genres. Body:

From Personal Interest to Academic Pursuit

Kao explains that her interest in K-pop shifted from personal enjoyment to an academic pursuit after watching BTS's performance on Saturday Night Live. During the COVID-19 lockdown, she had the opportunity to delve deeper into the genre and educate herself with the help of collaborators. Being a quantitative sociologist, Kao initially found it challenging to find a research angle but embraced the opportunity to explore new areas of study.

Exploring the Links between K-pop and Other Genres

Kao's research focuses on the connections between K-pop and other genres, such as '80s synth-pop, American Black music (R&B, hip hop), and New Wave synth-pop. She argues that K-pop draws inspiration from various genres, thanks to its fast-paced production. Kao and her collaborators have also examined the links between Japanese city pop, a popular genre in the 1980s, and a Korean version of city pop. Their future research includes exploring the influence of reggae in K-pop.

K-pop as a Platform for Political Action

Kao and her team are analyzing Twitter data related to a 2021 BTS tweet that addressed the Atlanta shootings and the #StopAsianHate movement. They aim to understand how K-pop fandoms, known for their organization and influence, contribute to political conversations. The analysis, involving millions of tweets, sheds light on the transformative possibilities of K-pop, particularly in raising awareness about social issues and combating xenophobia.

Visibility and Representation

Kao emphasizes the importance of visibility and representation in K-pop. The SNL performance by BTS, featuring East Asian artists singing in a non-English, non-Western language, was a significant moment for many Asian Americans. During the pandemic, BTS's widespread media coverage brought Asian faces into the spotlight. However, it also sparked xenophobic reactions, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the Asian community. Kao notes that the passionate fandom's defense of BTS and the subsequent media coverage have helped combat racism against Asians.

Pop Culture and Social Consequences

As a professor, Kao teaches a first-year seminar that delves into the aesthetics and popularity of British New Wave and K-pop. She emphasizes the importance of taking pop culture seriously, as it can shape perceptions of race, ethnicity, gender, and nationality. Kao encourages students to consume music from various genres and gain a deeper understanding of different musical styles. By doing so, they can appreciate the cultural significance and impact of music on society. Conclusion: The rise of K-pop from a subculture to a global phenomenon has captivated audiences worldwide. Grace Kao's research sheds light on the genre's cultural, sociological, and political effects. K-pop's ability to bring visibility to Asian faces, inspire political action, and challenge stereotypes has transformed it into a powerful force. As K-pop continues to evolve and influence the music industry, it is crucial for students and enthusiasts alike to explore diverse musical genres and appreciate the transformative possibilities they offer.