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

The night will also feature performances by techno stalwarts like Armin van Buuren and Adam Beyer, K-pop stars such as Taemin and British dance sensation PinkPantheress.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

Sunday also promises the festival debut of K-pop kings BIGBANG, who are celebrating their 20th anniversary with a highly anticipated return to the international stage.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

Watching a K-pop groups like Blackpink headline Coachella — and a veteran act like Bigbang return to the stage this year — broadened their aspirations for performing in the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

Now that K-pop is a fixture on the fest’s biggest stages, Bini could make a major impression as an ambassador for a country that is a great crossroads for music.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

While he agonizes over song choice, I watch the K-pop videos playing on the television.

From "The Sun Is Also a Star" by Nicola Yoon