K-pop: Contradictions and Contributions to Diasporic Youth

 

    After watching and reading articles about gendered expectations for male and female K-pop groups, it's very evident that there are contradictions. As mentioned in Yoon's article, fans seem to prefer "cutesy" demonstrations from idols, but if we were to take a look at groups like BTS and Blackpink, they either haven't or have not always followed the "cute" expectation of fans. 

    While I am unsure of their previous popularity, BTS used to have a completely different aura and persona compared to their florescent, charismatic image now. For instance, their album Dark and Wild is completely different from one of their recent albums Map
of the Soul: Persona. The possible change in image could've been due to minimal fame observed by their dark and gangster-like depiction. 

    Another interesting observation is that of harsh vs soft masculinity. Harsh masculinity is usually observed in Western entertainment, demonstrated through dominance, oppression of others, etc. Soft masculinity, as seen in BTS, is displayed through factors such as clothing and lyricism. Unlike traditional male expectations, BTS wear bright, colorful clothing (e.g. pink) which is avoided/unseen by Western male entertainers. Unlike Western artists, BTS focuses their songs on social issues such as mental health and adult expectations placed on youth, rather than topics about love, heartbreak, etc. This contrast to Western music might be one of the attractions for transnational fans, as well as Korean native fans. 

    Blackpink, on the other hand, has always contradicted the "cute", school-girl persona that other female groups (e.g. Apink) portray. While their music videos might not be as suggestive, their lyrics, as seen in "Ice Cream" are definitely provocative, especially if traditional Korean culture and expectations are taken into consideration. Despite this "rebuttal" of anticipations held by culture and the industry, Blackpink's fame is extraordinarily undeniable. This might imply or suggest that current fans may no longer prefer or feel the need to see their idols as "cutesy". 

    Lastly, to briefly touch on Yoon's article about the diasporic youth culture of K-pop, Blackpink's member, Lisa, has helped me feel closer to my Thai culture. Despite her being a part of a Korean music group, the fact that she's from Thailand and still speaks Thai brings me joy, as well as gives me a topic to bond over with my mom. Personally, I believe the fact that Blackpink, as well as other groups with international members, astonishes people and makes them more engaged as a whole. As for other immigrant children, if they're able to identify with a specific member or entire group of idols, they're more likely to continue that feeling of connection (possibly even sense of belonging) by becoming fans.