Category: Features

Top K-Drama Moments of the Week: November 9–15

Our latest top picks of K-drama moments show that love can be understated or lowkey. It can also be intrepid. And then there are moments that show love is a lost cause for others. 1. “Reply 1988” (Episode 4): The Wall Do you already have a husband in mind for Deok Sun? Well, if this… Continue reading Top K-Drama Moments of the Week: November 9–15

Soompi Says: American vs. Korean K-Pop Concerts Pt. 2

The Soompi Crew is back to continue discussing our previous question of what the differences are between K-Pop concerts in the U.S. and Korea. In the first part of our series we opened up by talking about the general concert logistics in the U.S. and Korea. This time we’ll be going more into depth about… Continue reading Soompi Says: American vs. Korean K-Pop Concerts Pt. 2

8 Male K-pop Stars With Magnetic Stage Presence

Making it big in K-pop is a big ask. Only a tiny fraction of all the trainees and debutants who enter the K-pop fray will ever make it truly big. Detractors often dismiss K-pop idol stars as pretty-faced dancers devoid of real charisma. But as most fans know well, looks and dancing ability are just… Continue reading 8 Male K-pop Stars With Magnetic Stage Presence

18 Things That Might Happen If K-Pop Stars Were Invited to Thanksgiving Dinner

1) Well, the dinner wouldn’t start without T.O.P. 2) Daesung would admire the smell of turkey and stuffing in the oven. 3) Onew would be that one person who wants chicken instead of turkey on Thanksgiving. 4) There would be a gender divide at the table. 5) Although some might venture their way over to… Continue reading 18 Things That Might Happen If K-Pop Stars Were Invited to Thanksgiving Dinner

19 Korean Actresses That Look Especially Gorgeous in Hanboks

The hanbok (or traditional Korean dress) is characterized by simple lines and vibrant colors, and is worn with an air of elegance and delicate beauty. It’s not always easy to pull off, but for some Korean actresses, they wear it like their second skin. Take a look below at some of the Korean actresses who… Continue reading 19 Korean Actresses That Look Especially Gorgeous in Hanboks

Seouling: Cozying Up at Kyuhyun’s Cafe Mom House

Seouling is a new series from Soompi featuring photo tours, thoughts, and reviews of places in Seoul. By giving a first-hand view into the streets of Korea, Seouling hopes to transport Soompiers to the hub of Korean entertainment. I made the decision to make the trek — ok, by trek I mean take the 10-minute bus ride… Continue reading Seouling: Cozying Up at Kyuhyun’s Cafe Mom House

Cornrows, Feathers, Face Paint, Oh My: Thoughts on Cultural Appropriation in K-Pop

Mnet’s “Unpretty Rapstar” has certainly raised some heads this season. In particular, one of the contestants, Truedy, has garnered much attention for both her talent and resemblance in musical style to the famous Yoon Mirae (Tasha). However, netizens and fellow “Unpretty Rapstar” contestants alike have also called out the gifted, but perhaps unaware rapper for… Continue reading Cornrows, Feathers, Face Paint, Oh My: Thoughts on Cultural Appropriation in K-Pop

Opinion: Why Sasaengs Happen in Korea

Let’s talk about sasaengs. Sasaengs are one of the most peculiar features to K-pop and one that leaves many western fans scratching their heads. What motivates fans to wait in the rain for hours outside an idol’s house, hack into Twitter accounts, or break into dorms? Furthermore, how do sasaengs even know where idols live,… Continue reading Opinion: Why Sasaengs Happen in Korea

Introducing TWICE: Why Each Member Is Unforgettable

Jaw-dropping visuals, top-of-the-line dance moves, powerful vocals, and a killer, unique, debut music video make TWICE one of the top rookie groups to keep an eye on in the future. Each of the nine members has her own unique appeal that separates her from the others and makes it impossible for fans to choose a bias. Nayeon… Continue reading Introducing TWICE: Why Each Member Is Unforgettable