K-Pop, short for Korean Pop, refers to a genre of popular music originating from South Korea that encompasses a wide variety of musical and visual elements. It is characterized by a blend of diverse musical styles, including pop, hip-hop, R&B, electronic dance music, and rock. K-Pop is known for its catchy melodies, intricate choreography, and high-quality production.
The genre is marked by its idol culture, where performers, often called idols, undergo extensive training in singing, dancing, and performance before debuting. K-Pop acts typically feature a group format, though solo artists are also prominent. The industry places a strong emphasis on visual aesthetics, incorporating elaborate music videos, fashion, and stage presentations.
K-Pop has gained a global following, with fandoms that actively engage through social media. The influence of K-Pop extends beyond music, impacting fashion, beauty, and pop culture worldwide. The genre’s rise in popularity, particularly in the 2010s, has led to significant international recognition and has established a substantial presence in the global music market.