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I'm a black South African and I wanna be a k-pop star and I don't know how or where to start?
#kpopmusic
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2 answers
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Angela’s Answer
There was a book that talks about the industry named "The birth of Korean cool : how one nation is conquering the world through pop culture". I borrowed it from the library and it goes into detail in the experience of it. Not to discourage, but it's a tough industry to break into plus the shady side. It's a very critical culture, plastic surgery is heavily advertised over there, the expectation is very high, higher than U.S, and as mentioned, racism might happen over there too unfortunately. Yes, it is cool hip industry, but I think majority is just a "show". I read they start at a very young age, grueling hours, etc.
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Doan’s Answer
Hi Jay,
If you have not already, it may be good to start with the history and culture of K-pop. That will provide you the key characteristics of K-pop and allow you to tailor your skills to resonate with that music movement.
Here is a good starting point -- this is a seven part documentary on k-pop beginnings to now.
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjq6DwYksrzxsfMkXHOU0sN6RVemYByW_
I hope this gives you a good starting point.
If you have not already, it may be good to start with the history and culture of K-pop. That will provide you the key characteristics of K-pop and allow you to tailor your skills to resonate with that music movement.
Here is a good starting point -- this is a seven part documentary on k-pop beginnings to now.
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjq6DwYksrzxsfMkXHOU0sN6RVemYByW_
I hope this gives you a good starting point.
Thank you so much Doan for your answer and for sharing the link. I have learned about the history and did took dance lessons (on YouTube 😅) since I already know how to sing.
Jay
Hi Jay, I'm happy you're passionate about being a K-Pop idol - but you have to remember these.
1) You may never know when you'll debut. You may need to find a job and have sufficient money to pay housing, food, etc. especially since you aren't from Korea.
2) Some K-Pop companies have a reputation of mistreatment, even members to each other (e.g. AOA).
3) Racism and cultural appropriation is VERY PROMINENT in Korea.
4) K-netizens are really toxic. PERIOD!!!
If you have a passion for it - go for it! Be realistic though. For K-idol+ news, follow @thektea, @kdramanotes_, @globalmyeon and @yanannews on Instagram. Also listen to "GET REAL w/ Peniel, BM, and Ashley Choi" since they provide their experiences as K-Pop idols coming from foreign countries.
Kquevhin