What Is K-Pop?: A Hitchhiker's Guide to the K-Pop Universe─Exploring the World of Idol Culture, K-Pop Industry, Fan Slang, and Fandom Rituals (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9791199223400)

Whether you're a seasoned fan or just curious about the hype, this guide opens the door to the vibrant world of K-pop, offering insights for both longtime fans and total newcomers.

It answers the questions beginners are most curious about: What makes fan culture in K-pop so unique? What defines K-pop musically as a genre? What's the secret behind idol choreography that fuels viral TikTok challenges and random play dances? And how do entertainment agencies train and shape idols through Korea's rigorous trainee system? From the excitement of fan sign events where you can meet your favorite idols one-on-one, to the unforgettable energy of fan chants at concerts, this book breaks it all down.

And for those curious about the business side, it takes a critical look at the industry's marketing strategies―like random photocards and multi-version albums that drive massive sales.