Five Videos to Introduce Kpop. Yes, that's right- kpop!

Truth: I really like kpop.

I know, I know... what self respecting music snob could admit to such a thing? With it’s bubblegum melodies and obsessive amounts of eyeliner and hip thrusting? But it’s true and with PSY’s recent world domination, I feel it’s time to share my two-cents and a few favorites.

So for the uninitiated, here are five music videos to introduce you to kpop.
Don’t judge too hard, give it a chance and don’t be surprised if you find yourself singing along to Korean phrases which you don’t even understand. If nothing else it’s an entertaining part of Korea that I enjoy using to get my students to speak to me in English about (I had one student freakout over the fact that I actually know Beast’s names, it was a fun moment).

1) Super Junior- Mr. Simple

This was the first kpop video I ever saw. It was before moving to Korea was even on my radar. My reaction was something along the lines of “hmm, well... um, that was... interesting?” but beware! After that first encounter I suddenly felt the need to go back and watch it again. Soon I had the video on repeat while making dinner. Before I knew what was happening “that was interesting” turned into “this is the best thing ever, where have these boys been all my life? no really, where are they from and what language are they speaking because I have no clue.”

And yes, yes I do consider it an accomplishment that I know all 13 members names and can tell them apart.

2) Mblaq- Cry

Mblaq is by far my favorite group. Although the first time I saw this video I couldn’t get over the fact that they were wearing more eyeliner in one shot then I have in my entire life. But don't worry, after enough time, guys with purple eyeshadow starts to seem completely normal.
There is a chance that, after a particularly bad day, I tend to turn this song up and recreate my own version of the choreography. The amount of arm flailing and floor banging is really a pretty good stress reliever!

Oh, and Seungho, I love you! *cough* What?! No, I didn't say anything... nope... move along now. nothing to see here...

3) f(x)- NU ABO

At first I found it a little hard to stomach most girl groups. They tend to go WAY overboard with the cutesy image. However, after a little searching I found plenty of groups with catchy tunes and a bit more attitude. I like that f(x) dares to not always wear 6 inch heels!

Side note: Can someone please explain to me how Korean women can wear those heels on the buses and not end up with a broken ankle or constantly falling in someone's lap when the driver slams on the breaks?! Seriously, they defy gravity. Ok, back to your regularly scheduled post.

4) Big Bang- Fantastic Baby
Another favorite group and also one of the biggest names here in Korea and pretty much everywhere in Asia. This has become my go to song on Fridays. Fantastic Baby!

And TOP saying “boomshakalaka” with that voice of his... does it get much better? The correct answer is, no.

5) B1A4- Baby Goodnight

Part of what I love about kpop is how completely absurd and goofy it can be at times. Ok, most of the time. Whether it’s the use of nonsense English lyrics (what exactly IS fantastic elastic?), crazy outfits (because floral wallpaper and silver spikes look good on everyone) or Korean Popstars in an old west town (really?!), somehow they make it work in a way that leaves you shaking your head and dancing along.

So there you have it. Hopefully you still have a little respect for my taste in music after all that. 

Oh, and just for good measure I'll leave you with one last tune. It's what I hear in the halls pretty much every morning before school starts and one of my favorite English conversation to date was discussing Doojoon's good looks with one of the 6th graders.