My experience with K-pop has always been through K-drama OSTs. Let me just say this, when it comes to soundtracks, no one does it better than Koreans.
There’s just something about music that connects to the human brain differently, maybe even more deeply, than movies or books ever could. And for Koreans, it’s like they’ve hacked that concept. Before watching any K-drama, I always look forward to the OST. Sometimes you forget a whole series, but one song plays randomly on TikTok or YouTube, and suddenly, every memory comes rushing back, the heartbreak, the laughter, the tears.
Now, I do know that OSTs are a bit different from K-pop. K-pop is a whole culture on its own, the choreography, the fandoms, the idols, the stage performances. I know some of the names, of course, Lisa (I love her so much), BTS (need I say more?), Blackpink… the legends. While I wouldn’t call myself a die-hard fan, there’s something about K-pop culture that’s highly contagious.
The reason I personally lean more toward OSTs is because of my taste in music. I’m more of an emotional-pop and ballads kind of person, give me lyrics that hurt a little, you know? Songs that make you feel something.
But like I said, K-pop culture is contagious. My first real experience with K-pop was actually this year (I know, I know, don’t judge me 😭). The first song that got me was “APT”, and then “Solo” by Jennie.
Now, I know “APT” can’t be fully classified as K-pop, but have you heard those Korean rap lines? They go hard. The song has this “I’m that girl” energy that just gets into your bloodstream. You could be feeling insecure one minute, then two verses in, you’re ready to strut down your hallway like it’s Seoul Fashion Week. That’s what I love about K-pop, it’s empowering in the most unexpected ways.
And then Jennie… ah, Jennie. The vibes are so contagious. I’m usually the kind of person who connects more to lyrics than beats, but then I saw her perform and, wow. The confidence, the aura, the effortless movement. How do you even move like that? That’s one thing about K-idols, they work HARD. Everything is polished, intentional, and inspiring. Every time I come across them, I feel a little more confident, a little more seen.
And can we talk about K-raps for a second? Those deep-voiced oppas could easily convince me to become a full-time fan. I’m not even kidding 😭
But this post wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the OSTs that have a special place in my heart. First on the list is “Without Words” by Park Shin Hye. That song got me through a heartbreak I didn’t think I’d survive. I even translated the lyrics just to cry with understanding. It broke me further, but somehow, it also healed me.
And my second absolute favorite of ALL TIME is Heart Strings OST. I've been in love since I was in High School, and I still listen to it til today. I remember a time I had trouble sleeping; the songs from this OST helped me fall asleep.
Then there are the happy ones, OSTs from King the Land, Personal Taste, My Demon, and Queen of Tears. These songs never fail to lift my mood. No matter how drained or grumpy I am, a few seconds in and I’m already smiling.
PS: even my mom had to make this song, Confess To You by Lim Kim, her ringtone. 😂
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And of course, there’s Boys Over Flowers. I recently rewatched it and felt like I time-traveled. Back to those days when my friends and I would sing along to Korean songs without understanding a word, just vibes.
Before I end this, I have to mention something else I love, their fashion and makeup. I share a similar body type with many Korean actresses, so I often find inspiration in how they dress, classy, preppy, minimalist. Their style isn’t loud, but it’s always clean and put together. And don’t get me started on the makeup! I learned lip overlining and the soft almond-eye look just from watching K-dramas. K-idols however lean more towards rock-n-roll kinda style which is BOLD, to say the least.
So yeah, that’s my little K-pop and K-drama love story. I may not be a full-on stan (yet), but every time I hear an OST or see a K-idol perform, I’m reminded that music, no matter the language, really is a universal language of emotion because the stan that BTS has? lol, check the numbers.
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In response to Korean Hive Village Contest #17 K-Pop and Me. All videos are from YouTube.
Thank you for reading. 🧡