Is it all just K-Pop?

The answer is both Yes and No. If we go by what is widely perceived as K-Pop, that is idol singers, music bands, and the fandoms, then the answer will be: it is not just that. However, if we go by the ideal definition, that is: what is included in the popular culture, then there is a lot more to K-Pop than music bands and idols. (Disclaimer: I am a fan of a band of singers, and an ardent one at that. So, in no way I am trivializing any of that.)

For me, Korean popular culture encompasses a lot of other things as well. There is the food culture (a must mention for a foodie like me), the different dance forms, the music styles (more on this later), the folk games, and the literature and art. This is celebrated widely by Korean people as well. Knowingly or unknowingly, we might have witnessed the different aspects or the popular aspects of the Korean culture.

Let us take this picture for example. This is a snapshot of a dance performance by BTS at the MMA 2018.

Most of us might have seen this performance by BTS in the Melon Music Awards 2018, where  three different traditional dance forms were displayed.

Now what is the prop that Jimin is holding in his hands here? That is a 부채(‘Buchae’) or a hand fan and the dance form is called 부채춤 (‘Buchaechum’) or fan dance.

So, what is Buchaechum?

It is a well-known Korean dance form that is based and inspired from various traditional and religious Korean dances. In 1954, Buchaechum was created by dancer Kim Baek-bong. This dance is said to have taken inspirations from Korean shamanic ritual dances and includes nuances of various folk dances from the Joseon dynasty. It is the most thriving Korean dance, almost equivalent in status to modern dance. It is much more than a dance form as it portrays the Korean culture as well.

The Performance:

The performance comprises of the beautiful 꽃부채 (flower fans) held in both hands to create various patterns and formations as a group, which represents images such as waves, flowers, and such, and also depicts the strong love for the nation. Performers wear 한복 (‘Hanbok’) or the traditional attire. The 군무 (dance) showcases graceful movements amalgamated with techniques suitable for interpretation by modern audience. The rhythm of 음악 (music) accompanies the dance performance, especially 민요 (‘Minyo’) i.e. Korean folk songs or 산조 (‘Sanjo’) i.e. instrumental music.

This dance requires a high degree of perfection, and it summarizes the traditional dance of Korean people. It is performed at cultural events, in schools, universities, and in almost every Korean community around the world. And when top and famous artists like BTS perform this, it speaks loads about how every Korean is proud about their culture and are trying their best to preserve and promote it.

Would you like to try this dance form? It is beautiful, elegant, and charming. It is definitely worthwhile to witness Buchaechum in all its glory.

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