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[Student Reporters Club] What Makes K-Pop Attractive?

▶Elyse Almendarez (Freshman, Chicago Lane Tech College Prep)

There are many things I believe that attract non-Koreans (such as myself) to K-Pop. I had decided to give BTS a try and ended up enjoying their music even though I couldn't understand what they were saying. Initially, it was the beat that got me hooked, then I decided to look up the meaning behind the lyrics. I was surprised that they were talking about themes like love and hope in a non-sexual way-contrary to most pop music in the US which are focused around sex and drugs.

I really admired this quality about them because I was used to music that showcased love through inappropriate lyrics. I then began to watch videos of their concerts, vlogs, and practices, and I was immediately drawn to their personalities and how they treated one other. I laughed and cried alongside them-they made me feel emotions I had never really felt in my life.

Their albums such as the “Love Yourself” album really helped me through a rough patch in my life.



Having deprived myself of self-love at the time, listening to their songs gave me the realization of how much love I owed myself. These seven boys had provided me with one of the best advice and hope through their motivational songs-and for that, I’m very grateful.

I believe it's the messages that these K-Pop artists portray through their music that attracts non-Koreans to the K-Pop culture. For me, it was BTS that provided these epiphanies in my life but other K-Pop artists also provide this sort of outlet for many others I’ve grown to like more than just BTS, and all these artists give me joy and make me feel connected. I hope others can find a K-Pop group they relate to because it's an amazing feeling to be a K-Pop fan, and I am sure that the meanings behind their lyrics can touch your heart.

▶Jenny Thai (Freshman, Chicago Lane Tech College Prep)

I had recently gotten into K-Pop around 4-5 months ago, and I have yet to regret my decision. I continue to grow more and more fascinated with it. Throughout my whole journey, I’ve been asked by my classmates, “Why do you like this?” and here’s how I usually go about answering them:

First is the personality. In a program called ‘The Knowing Bros’, which is based on a high-school theme and settings, K-Pop group members come out as new transfer students and interact with the existing “students” to share about themselves and joke around with the cast I was able to see the different members’ humor and behavior, and liked the way they expressed themselves.

Second is the choreography. I believe that K-Pop artists and bands dominate this category over many other cultures. Take Super Junior’s “Black Suit” for example. When you watch their dance practice videos you’ll realize how much detail they put into each move-you’ll notice how quickly they switch from one move to the next and wonder how they manage to keep up with the music. Their perfected choreography is stemmed from weeks of practice as they know fans appreciate this sort of effort all across the globe.

Last but not least, my attraction for K-Pop as a foreigner is the visual portrayed through the people, the clothing, and the overall concept. The music video for “Singularity” by BTS is a great example because Kim Tae-hyung, the center, attracts the viewers with his quiet gaze and allures them with his aesthetically pleasing outfits. His voice soothes the mind and the background gives off an ominous feeling.

People who haven’t been exposed to K-Pop should test the waters and explore its wonderfulness.

Maybe you’ll find something you never knew you loved in this genre, but you won’t know until you give it a shot!


◆Illinois' Richest Governor

▶Christie Lee (Junior, Adlai E. Stevenson High School)

It is ironic to imagine that the richest politician in history has become governor of one of the poorest states in the nation. Many believe that the money devoted to JB Pritzker’s campaign was not worth it because he was favored to win and the Blue Wave was to spread in Illinois regardless.
However, I believe it was worth it. Politics is a risky game where one shouldn’t overlook or underestimate. Bruce Rauner also fought hard for the governor position in Illinois, and it was necessary for Pritzker to play his cards right. It isn’t wise to judge Pritzker solely based off of his personal wealth or that he spent $171 million for his campaign run. His personal wealth does not determine the changes he can bring to Illinois.
Illinois is sinking in debt, and we need a governor to change the pathway for our state, which hopefully Pritzker can provide. Whether you are a Democrat, a Republican, etc, all of us can agree how crucial it is for Illinois to innovate and elevate its economic performance. It may be time for a change.


Student Reporters Club



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