K-pop Live

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In the 1990s, South Korea underwent significant changes, transitioning from a military dictatorship to a civilian government, evolving from a manufacturing economy to a postindustrial hub, and becoming a more dynamic transnational society. These shifts greatly influenced the media industry and the emergence of K-pop. Suk-Young Kim examines the rapid rise of Korean popular music alongside the growth of personal technology and social media, exploring the interplay of these elements within the historical context of Korea and broader questions about the nature of "live" and "alive." Through in-depth interviews with industry personnel, media experts, critics, and fans, as well as archival research, Kim delves into how the K-pop industry has navigated the challenges of promoting live music in a digital marketplace. The book highlights digital media's relationship with "liveness" in K-pop production and consumption, emphasizing the emotional connections formed in the digital age. By analyzing performances online, in concert, and through holographic technologies, Kim provides insights into the industry's strategies for diversifying media platforms to engage a global audience. Ultimately, the work raises important questions about existence and connection in an increasingly mediated world, where the concept of "live" reflects our desires for belonging amid technological fragmentation.