Why is Gangnam Style Considered as K-Pop Despite Its Not-Idol Style
In the vast ocean of K-Pop, Psy's Gangnam Style stands out for its unique style and individuality, distinguishing it from the typical idol culture prevalent in K-Pop. However, it is often debated whether Gangnam Style can truly be classified as K-Pop. This article delves into the definitions and nuances of K-Pop, exploring the reasons why Gangnam Style is indeed considered part of the K-Pop genre.
Crossover Appeal
While K-Pop is often characterized by highly polished production, choreographed performances, and idol culture, Gangnam Style blurs these boundaries. Its appeal lies in its crossover nature, making it distinct from the mainstream K-Pop music that often focuses on themes of love, youth, and personal struggle. Psy's song Gangnam Style serves as a satirical commentary on the extravagant lifestyle of the Gangnam district, introducing a layer of social critique that is relatively uncommon in typical K-Pop songs.
Musical Style
The musical style of Gangnam Style sets it apart from mainstream K-Pop. While K-Pop often features more polished and refined sounds, Gangnam Style embraces a more raw, realistic, and unpolished approach. This earned it a unique status as an alternative K-Pop, blending elements of techno rave music with K-Pop's inherent energy. Its viral nature and global appeal demonstrate that Gangnam Style is more than just a one-hit wonder; it is a groundbreaking piece of music that defies typical K-Pop norms.
Artistic Identity
Psy's unique style and personality contrast sharply with the highly polished image typical of K-Pop idols. His approach to music emphasizes humor and individuality, diverging from the standardized image that K-Pop seeks to project. Psy's journey from a self-published artist to a global sensation highlights his artistic independence, further distinguishing him from traditional K-Pop idols who are often bound by the constraints of their company's trainee system.
The K-Pop Label Misconception
The term "K-Pop" is not strictly a genre but rather a term that refers to the process through which idols are signed as trainees and then selected for public release. In this context, Psy's situation is unique. Unlike many K-Pop artists who undergo long training periods and strict adherence to their company's vision, Psy's career trajectory does not conform to conventional K-Pop norms. He established his own label in 2018 and entered the K-Pop scene relatively late in his career, at around 33-34 years old.
Comparing Gangnam Style to Mainstream K-Pop
While mainstream K-Pop groups like TVXQ! MIROTIC MV, EXO LOVE SHOT MV, and BLACKPINK - KILL THIS LOVE MV feature polished and often fantastical music videos, Gangnam Style is considered more raw and realistic. Similarly, alternative K-Pop groups like Balming Tiger - 'Sexy Nukim' feat. RM of BTS Official M/V also challenge traditional K-Pop norms, though their musical styles and public reception differ.
However, despite these differences, Gangnam Style remains a cornerstone of K-Pop due to its cultural impact and mass appeal. Its success underscores the diversity within K-Pop and challenges the notion that K-Pop must always adhere to a singular artistic and commercial formula.
In conclusion, while Gangnam Style does not conform to the typical K-Pop idol formula, its place within the K-Pop genre is undeniable. Its influence on the landscape of K-Pop and its global popularity affirm its significance in the ever-evolving world of K-Pop.