By: Erin Watts

What is K-pop? K-pop stands for Korean Pop, a popular genre now spreading worldwide. A better definition is “K-pop or Korean Pop is the internationally popular, aesthetic-driven, style-bending, trendsetting, music genre of the 21st century” (“A Brief History of K-Pop”). It all started with Psy’s “Gangnam Style” in 2012. In 2017, BTS became the first K-pop act to perform at the AMA’s and took off around the world. K-pop was the fastest growing market of 2020. The 1st generation of K-pop was the 1990’s to 2000; 2nd generation was from 2000-2010; 3rd generation was from 2010 to 2019. Lastly, the most recent generation is 4th generation, starting in 2019 until the present.  Idols perform with unbelievable singing, dancing, and rapping on their stages.  Their spectacular outfits tend to take the internet by storm.  Concerts sell out within minutes, some, within seconds.  

How much does K-pop contribute to the South Korean economy?  K-pop brings in about five billion dollars to the economy every year. About 3.6 billion of that is BTS alone. Other prominent groups include: BLACKPINK, Twice, TxT, Stray Kids, Exo, and Itzy.  

What is the deal with Military Service? Any able-bodied South Korean male between the ages of 18-28 must serve in the military.  Depending on the branch of military one chooses, the service time differs. Army and Marine Corps members serve for 18 months, the Navy is 20 months and the Air Force is 21 months.  There are a few ways one can be exempted from Military Service. If an individual has disabilities, he is exempt from service.  Another way is if the individual has a low income. They do not have to serve.  One example of this is Taehwan from the group VANNER; his income was too low for him to serve. 

Should K-pop Idols have to Serve in the Military? Personally, I believe no.  Considering the impact on South Korea and its economy, it would be less effective to have them serve than to keep them out. One of the biggest controversies surrounding this topic is BTS entering the military. BTS’s eldest member, Jin, as well as another member, J-Hope, have entered the military recently.  Many people are upset to lose some of their favorite artists, but understand it’s their duty to follow the South Korean law.  

So, do you think K-pop Idols should have to serve in the military?

Sources used:

startuptalky.com

lafilm.edu

linguasia.com