Music & Gender: Kpop Boybands vs Kpop Girl Groups

 As many of you all know, I am a HUGE fan of k-pop. And yes, I do occasionally make it my entire personality. But behind the scenes of the well-shot music videos and catchy melodies, most k-pop groups have strict rules to follow, especially based on gender. There are times when these issues are brought up in some of the songs produced.

Topic #1: Over-Sexualization of Women

Very common in the k-pop industry does one see female performers with short skirts and tight outfits dancing provocatively. The main reason for this is generating revenue. People will give more money and attention to hot women and hot men. Women especially are being used as objects and aren't getting the respect that they deserve for who they are beyond their looks. Going along with this, many idols are being sexualized from a young age. 

For example: "Cookie" by NewJeans

Recently debuted, the oldest member is 18 and the youngest is 14. Shocking, isn't it? And the meaning of "Cookie" isn't as cute as one might expect.

On the other hand, some groups are taking this issue into their own hands to discuss in their music. G-IDLE's song "Nxde" discusses the sexualization of women and how they are more than just a pretty face. Side note, notice the "Habanera" melody :)

Topic #2: Weight and Diets (*TW)

One of the prevalent issues in k-pop is how many idols are being forced to lose weight at an unhealthy measure. This applies to both female idols and male idols. Men are stereotypically well-chisled and fit, whereas women are supposed to look as small as possible, almost like dolls. You hear in the news about the diets that are being forced upon idols, and it's honestly heartbreaking how the industry focuses more on appearance rather than natural beauty and talent.

One group I wanted to mention is Super Junior, as they have been known for having a member in their group who is plus-sized, Shin Dong Hee (Shindong on stage). While he is an outstanding choreographer and vocalist, he did receive quite a bit of backlash for his weight, and isn't given as much attention as the other members of the group. This is evident in the music video for "Sorry, Sorry," as he doesn't receive many solos and is typically in the back of the group.

Shindong before and after weight loss

As I mentioned, women are expected to look very very small. Like, unhealthy small. Take famous group Blackpink for example. In this video, you can see how skinny everyone is, and honestly it's pretty concerning.

Topic #3: Men & Women Not Being Allowed to Interact

The last topic I wanted to mention is how little you see female and male idols interacting. The main reason for this is that most k-pop groups have strict dating bans, which sometimes include females and males not even being allowed to sit near each other. However, some groups have decided to break this rule for the sake of independence and music.

Example 1: KARD - the most famous co-ed k-pop group that I know of

Example 2: Dawn & Hyuna, who have unfortunately ended their relationship. Side note, they both got kicked out of their groups just to be in a relationship. Bold move.

Thanks for reading! Here's a classic meme to end this on :)