Have you ever listened to songs by BTS or BLACKPINK? If you have, then you are among the many people who listen and enjoy K-pop. K-pop is short for Korean popular music. This music has helped share the Korean language and culture across the globe.

K-pop may seem new, but it is part of a much longer history. Koreans have cherished music and dance since ancient times. Folk songs, called minyo, were passed down orally. Minyo featured simple, memorable melodies with choruses everyone could sing. These songs covered themes like love, work, festivities, and funerals. They formed the roots of Korean music.

Around 1900, American missionaries came to Korea and introduced Western music. People began using Western techniques to create a new type of music called ch’angga. These songs held a special meaning when Korea came under Japanese colonial rule. Ch’angga carried messages of resistance and independence. During this time, young Korean artists became talented in both traditional and Western music. In fact, they performed much like today's K-pop stars.

During this time, Western-style songs, known as gayo (Korean popular songs), became popular in Korea. Among them, there are songs called minjung gayo (people's songs). These songs were sung to oppose the harsh governments and had themes of human rights and peace. Kim Min-ki, a key figure, composed many beloved minjung gayo that are still sung today.

In the 2000s, dance became an important part of Korean popular music. Performances were high-energy and featured synchronized routines. Many groups would create signature dance moves that fans would recognize and copy. Known as K-pop, this popular music is now enjoyed around the world. 

Through social media, Korean music has spread to many different countries. Singers have gained millions of new international fans and are performing across the globe. 

K-pop continues to grow. BTS is one of the most famous K-pop groups. Their popular songs have lyrics about love, solidarity, world peace, and self-love. Famous collaborations, such as the song "APT" featuring Bruno Mars and Rosé from BLACKPINK, show how K-pop is connecting people of different cultures.

In Korea, a new trend is emerging. People play K-pop at protest sites, shake light sticks, and dance. These gatherings mix minjung gayo from the 70s and 80s with modern K-pop. This fusion brings together people of all ages. People enjoy and learn music from different eras, united in their commitment to democracy.

Now K-pop has become the symbol of K-democracy. As you enjoy K-pop, please spread the love for Korean songs, their history, and the spirit of humanity and peace that Korean music embodies.