K-pop's global rise is undeniable, with its influence expanding each year. However, a recent shake-up at the beloved music show Inkigayo has triggered significant backlash from fans. Known for its rigorous criteria, including social media metrics, digital streaming numbers, and live voting, Inkigayo has long been a tough nut to crack, with K-pop groups, soloists, and artists from various genres all striving for the top spot. The show has just announced a major overhaul: incorporating global music platform data into its digital scoring system. This change could have a profound impact on how points are distributed, as digital scores are crucial for many acts. The question is, does this shift have anything to do with the global success of superstars like BTS, Seventeen, Stray Kids, or Blackpink? HYBE Employees’ Disrespectful Comments on BTS Jungkook’s Support for K-Pop Group NewJeans Sparks Massive ARMY Backlash.

These K-pop groups have undeniably set the bar high for Korean international presence. Their global fanbases and streaming numbers have redefined what it means to be a successful K-pop act on the world stage. By integrating global data into the scoring system, Inkigayo seems to be acknowledging the worldwide reach of these groups. This move could be seen as an effort to align the show with the international scale of K-pop’s influence.

Inkigayo’s Instruction Regarding K-Pop Music Analysis

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However, the change raises questions about its impact on the broader K-pop landscape. Will it further amplify the success of globally dominant groups like BTS, Seventeen, Stray Kids, and Blackpink, potentially overshadowing smaller or less internationally recognised acts? Fans worry that this might widen the gap between these global giants and emerging stars, who might struggle to compete under the new criteria. As Inkigayo adjusts to the global K-pop phenomenon, the impact on both the industry and its diverse talent remains to be seen.

Survey Reveals K-Pop As ‘Very Popular’ Worldwide

A Statista survey conducted in 2023 across 26 countries shows that almost 50% of respondents view K-pop as “very popular” in their region. This indicates that K-pop has not only gained significant public attention but also boosted the sales of related merchandise. The survey underscores K-pop's broad appeal, demonstrating its influence far beyond South Korea and reaching a global audience.

Statista’s Survey on K-Pop

Statista Survey (Photo Credits: Statista)

Regardless of the reasons behind it, fans are concerned about the sudden changes to Inkigayo's scoring system. The K-pop show has faced backlash for altering its criteria, with many feeling that the new rules make it even more challenging for artists to succeed. The abrupt shift has left fans worried about the increased difficulty for their favourite acts.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 17, 2024 05:04 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).