[Video] K-pop spreading to older, more mainstream, fan base

The growing number of K-pop fans in Korea and elsewhere is generating a stronger cultural and commercial impact than ever before, as the boom led by high-profile groups such as BTS expands to a wider range of market segments.

In recent years, it is not only high school students embracing K-pop music. People in their 20s and older -- those with more purchasing power -- are fueling the exponential growth of K-pop and its associated merchandise market.

The Korea Herald met two passionate K-pop fans in their 20s: Jung Yoo-kyoung, who belongs to EXO-L; and Woo Nam-yee, who belongs to the BTS Army. 

Jung recently traveled to Osaka, Japan, for an EXO concert.

“It cost me between 600,000 and 700,000 won to watch the EXO Osaka concert, but I was just happy. Don’t you think that I should be happy, considering the time and money I’ve spent?” 
 

Woo even traveled to the US in September to witness part of BTS’ concert tour.

Both said their idols had had a significant influence on them. They talk more about their passion for K-pop in the following video :

(Shot and edited by Lee So-jeong / The Korea Herald)



By Lee So-jeong (xojeong2@heraldcorp.com)