KPop Glossary

Are you a KPop fan who sometimes feels like you're lost in translation? Do you find yourself scratching your head when you hear terms like "maknae" or "sajegi"? Don't worry, you're not alone! The world of KPop comes with its own unique language, and it's time to decode it. In this KPop glossary, we'll break down some of the most common terms used in the industry. 

Before we dive into the glossary, let's start with the basics. Kpop, short for Korean pop music, is a genre that originated in South Korea and has taken the world by storm. It encompasses a wide range of musical styles, captivating performances, and a dedicated fanbase.

Bias

Every Kpop fan has a bias, which refers to their favourite member of a Kpop group. It's the one who steals your heart with their talent, charisma, and irresistible charm. Choosing a bias is a serious matter and often leads to heated debates among fans.

Ultimate Bias

Your ultimate bias is the member who holds a special place in your heart. They are the one who resonates with you on a deeper level and has a significant impact on your life. Choosing an ultimate bias is a personal and emotional decision that often leads to a lifelong dedication to that particular artist. If you collect your bias line photocards, you can be certain that you won't see increased member pricing at KPop Idol.

Stan

Stanning someone means being an extremely dedicated fan. It goes beyond simply liking a Kpop group or artist. Stans are passionate, loyal, and will go to great lengths to support their favorites. Stanning involves following every update, streaming music, attending concerts, and defending your idols from any criticism.

Debut

The debut marks the official introduction of a Kpop group to the world. It's a significant milestone that sets the stage for their future success. Debut songs are carefully crafted to make a lasting impression and showcase the group's unique style and talent.

Fanclub

Kpop fanclubs are more than just groups of fans. They are communities that provide support, organize events, and create a sense of belonging. Each Kpop group has its own official fanclub name, and being part of a fanclub is a way to show your dedication and love for your favorite artists.

Main/Lead Vocalist/Dancer

In a KPop group, each member usually has a specific role. The main vocalist is the member with the strongest vocal abilities, while the lead vocalist supports them. Similarly, the main dancer is the best dancer in the group, with the lead dancer providing backup. Think of them as the stars of the show, the ones who shine the brightest on stage!

Visual and Face of the Group

In Kpop, the visual refers to the member who is considered the most visually stunning. They are often chosen as the "face" of the group and are known for their striking appearance and photogenic qualities. Visuals captivate fans with their beauty and add an extra layer of charm to the group.

The face of the group, on the other hand, is the member who represents the group as a whole. They're the one who appears in the forefront of promotional materials and acts as the group's spokesperson.

Leader and Maknae

The leader is the member who takes charge of the group. They're responsible for guiding and managing the other members, both on and off stage. On the flip side, the maknae is the youngest member of the group. They're often adored and protected by the older members, and their youthful energy brings a fresh dynamic to the group.

Hyung/Unni/Oppa/Noona and the '97-line?

In Korean culture, respect and hierarchy play a significant role. "Hyung" is used by males to address older males, while "Unni" is used by females to address older females. "Oppa" is used by females to address older males, and "Noona" is used by males to address older females.

The '97-line refers to KPop idols who were born in 1997, and they often form a close bond due to sharing the same age. The most famous 97-liners are Jung Kook, Cha Eun-woo, GOT7’s Yugyeom and BamBam, SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu, The8 and DK, and NCT’s Jaehyun.

Comeback and Triple Crown

In the world of Kpop, a comeback is not just a return but a highly anticipated event. It refers to when a Kpop group releases new music, accompanied by a visually stunning music video and captivating performances. Fans eagerly await comebacks and show their support through streaming, buying albums, and voting on music shows. A "triple crown" is achieved when a group wins first place on a music show for three consecutive weeks with the same song. It's a remarkable achievement and a testament to the group's popularity.

Perfect All-Kill and Sajegi

A "perfect all-kill" occurs when a song reaches the top spot on all major Korean music charts simultaneously. It's a significant accomplishment and a sign of immense popularity. On the darker side, "sajegi" refers to the act of manipulating album sales or streaming numbers to artificially inflate a group's popularity. It's a controversial practice that can harm the integrity of the music industry.

Sasaeng fans and what is a Schedule

"Sasaeng" fans are obsessive fans who go to extreme lengths to invade an idol's privacy. They may stalk them, invade their personal space, or even engage in illegal activities. It's important to respect idols' boundaries and privacy, as they deserve to have a personal life outside of their careers.

On a lighter note, a "schedule" refers to an idol's daily itinerary, which can include rehearsals, interviews, variety show appearances, and more.

Now that you have a better understanding of the Kpop glossary, you can dive deeper into this fascinating world. Remember, Kpop is not just about the music; it's a cultural phenomenon that brings people together from all corners of the globe. So, embrace the language, join the fandom, and let the Kpop magic sweep you off your feet!