K-Pop and Korean Popular Culture

3 units

This online course will survey Korean popular music (K-Pop) from the end of the Korean War to the latest K-Pop hits. We will explore ways in which the historical, social, and cultural shifts on the Korean peninsula have helped condition the preference for certain musical styles. We will also consider how K-Pop incorporates and appropriates musical trends and styles such as rap, hip hop, rock, and electronic music from abroad. Students will learn to define and identify in auditory examples the underlying qualities of K-pop musical genres and styles. More broadly, the course aims to enhance our understanding and appreciation of contemporary Korea through the exploration and enjoyment of its popular music.