BTS, EXO or more generally K-pop has recently gained prominence in the news. Since the early 2000s this unique amalgamation of pop, hip hop and R&B has spread from South Korea to captivate global audiences. BTS became the first K-pop group in history to enter the Official UK Top 40 Charts with their song ‘IDOL’ in August 2018, and their success continues to grow with sold out tours in major venues.<sup>1</sup><br><br>How have these bands achieved success in such a saturated market? Firstly, the sheer number of members is unique: BTS has seven members but many other bands have more.<sup>2</sup> Moreover, stage performances and music videos by these bands involve masses of colour and visual effects to mesmerise the audience. Performances are polished and perfectly synchronised in both vocal and dance routines, setting K-pop apart in the music industry.<sup>3</sup><br><br>This new wave of exported music is one recent example of the cultural change evidencing globalisation. The influence of American media and the millennial generation’s overhaul of tradition to suit modern-day society has made it easy for K-pop to pervade South Korean culture – or at least the world’s view of South Korean culture – and be as much a representation of the nation as any of their more historic, deep-rooted traditions. This new global cultural representation of South Korea is accumulating fans worldwide, further fuelling the rise of K-pop, and making music one of South Korea’s most popular exports.<br><br>