K-pop

American  

[key-pop] / ˈkeɪˌpɒp /

noun

1. pop music from Korea (often used attributively): K-pop is really great to dance to.

   a K-pop girl group;

   K-pop is really great to dance to.

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K-pop British  

noun

1. the characteristic pop music of South Korea

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Usage

What does K-pop mean? K-pop is a genre of pop music originating from South Korea. The genre combines such Western pop music elements as hip-hop and rock with Korean traditions, and frequently involves dance routines and singing in Korean lyrics intermixed with some English. K-pop is especially performed by idolized boy bands and girl groups. What are some other words related to K-pop?J-popBTSGangnam Style

Etymology

Origin of K-pop

First recorded in 1990–95; K(orean) ( def. ) + pop ²

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

K-pop

We try to cover comprehensive genres and areas of music, and I don’t want us to be labeled as just you know K-pop or pop or hip-hop.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 25, 2026

It is dedicated to all aspects of Korean culture, from K-pop to K-food and K-beauty, alongside performances and panels.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 12, 2026

Now, Baby Shark Boy wants to be a K-pop star.

From BBC ● Aug. 12, 2026

K-pop group BTS is known for its spirited fan base.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 11, 2026

For her twelfth birthday, Alabama McCain down the street got a sweatshirt once worn by a member of her favorite K-pop group.

From "The Manifestor Prophecy" by Angie Thomas