FIRST GENERATION
The first generation of K-pop began in 1992 with the debut of the three-member boy band Seo Taiji and Boys. The group's music was inspired by Western styles like hip hop, pop, rap rock, alternative rock, techno, and alternative metal. Their lyrics were about love, school, and society. One of the group's members was Yang Hyun-suk, who would later go on to found YG Entertainment. Their song “Nan Arayo” (I Know) from its debut album was notable for being one of the first Korean rap songs.
THIRD GENERATION
The third generation of K-pop, which lasted from 2012 to 2019, saw the emergence of groups like BLACKPINK, TWICE, SEVENTEEN, and Red Velvet. This generation also saw the rise of social media, with K-pop idols connecting with fans directly through platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
FOURTH GENERATION
Groups that formed in 2018 or later are considered "4th generation" K-pop groups. The 4th generation of K-pop is also known as the "Golden Age of K-Pop" and has led to the rise of "Hallyu" or the Korean Wave. The 4th generation has a stronger media presence, and started the trend of online concerts and fan signs due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
SECOND GENERATION
The second generation of K-pop stars followed the trailblazers of the 1990s, and today's artists represent a third wave. Also known as the "Golden Age of K-pop", includes groups that debuted from 2003 to 2012 and are responsible for popularizing
K-pop outside of Korea.
Curatorial Note
Through this website, you are about to discover the other side of the Korean Music Industry that is often shadowed by the companies in which idols work. You will look through the first through fourth generation of these Idols. From toxic lifestyles that they are forced to follow to their committing suicide, there are a lot of topics that the fans overlook. We will dive deeply into the dark side and bring it to light.