K-pop Trends and Fan Perspectives in 2022
2022 saw an array of views within the K-pop community, reflecting the diverse and often passionate perspectives of fans. These opinions range from critique of popular groups to debates on the importance of visuals, and a shift towards shorter song lengths. In this article, we delve into some of the less common but noteworthy views on the K-pop scene.
Unpopular K-pop Opinions in 2022
During 2022, K-pop fans voiced some unconventional opinions, including:
Dislike for Popular Groups: Some fans believed that mainstream groups such as BTS and BLACKPINK were overrated. There was a growing sentiment that less mainstream groups deserved more recognition for their talents. Bias towards Visuals: A debate arose over the emphasis on appearances, with some fans arguing that genuine talent and artistry should be the defining factors over looks. Overhyped Comebacks: Certain group camebacks were criticized for being overly anticipated and failing to deliver the same level of originality as promotional efforts suggested. Disappointment in Concept Changes: Long-standing fans expressed dissatisfaction with concept shifts aimed at appealing to a broader audience, feeling that it led to a loss of their favorite groups' unique identities. Skepticism of Idol Relationships: Critics maintained that private matters between idols should remain private to preserve the fan's fantasy of their idols. Criticism of Fan Culture: There was an ongoing discussion about the toxic aspects of fan culture, including the escalation of shipping wars and harassment. Preference for Older Generations: Some fans held a firm belief that early K-pop groups, such as second-generation generation acts, produced more timeless music compared to newer groups. Dislike for Certain Genres: Fans openly expressed their dislike for popular music genres within K-pop, often favoring more traditional sounds over tropical house or EDM.Quality Over Quantity in Song Length
A growing trend in the K-pop industry is the release of shorter songs, which has sparked both praise and criticism. The argument in favor of shorter songs is that they can gain quicker popularity through platforms like TikTok, which relies heavily on short-form content.
However, it's crucial to consider the impact of such practices on the overall quality of music. Songs that are less than 3 minutes, while profitable for a short-term spike in social media presence, often lack the depth and memorability to stand the test of time. Taylor Swift's 'All Too Well (Ten Minute Version)' is an excellent example of a song that, despite its brevity, boasts a lasting legacy due to its quality.
Compared to these shorter hits, songs that are trending on TikTok often have a single catchy part, leading to superficial popularity. When the entire song is listened to, it often fails to meet the same levels of enjoyment. This has led to diminishing listener interest and mixed opinions among fans.
The emergence of bands like New Jeans, with their shorter songs, exemplifies this trend. While shorter songs might generate initial buzz, they can quickly lose their appeal. This inconsistent quality can lead to fan frustration and mixed reviews.
Conclusion
The K-pop industry's focus on shorter songs as a strategy for rapid popularity could undermine the industry's future success. Both fans and artists should prioritize quality over quantity to ensure that music remains meaningful and enduring. Long-term success in the K-pop industry requires creating timeless musical works that resonate with listeners over time.