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Writer's pictureMINHO JUNG

The 5 Common Dance Genres in K-Pop

K-Pop, short for Korean Pop, has taken the world by storm with its catchy music, captivating visuals, and dynamic choreography. The dance styles in K-Pop are diverse, often incorporating elements from various dance genres. Here are the five common dance genres that are frequently used in K-Pop choreography, making each performance unique and mesmerizing.


1. Hip-Hop

Hip-Hop is one of the most influential dance styles in K-Pop. Characterized by its sharp movements, body isolations, and rhythmic precision, Hip-Hop brings an energetic and edgy vibe to K-Pop performances. Icons like BTS and BLACKPINK often use Hip-Hop elements in their choreography, making it a staple in the genre.


Key Features:


Sharp, staccato movements

Body isolations

Rhythmic precision

Popular Songs:


BTS – "Mic Drop"

New Jeans – "How Sweet"


2. Contemporary

Contemporary dance in K-Pop adds an emotional and fluid touch to performances. This style emphasizes expression, storytelling, and fluid movements. Groups like EXO and Taemin from SHINee are known for incorporating contemporary dance to convey deeper emotions and narratives in their music videos.


Key Features:

Fluid, continuous movements

Emotional expression

Storytelling through dance

Popular Songs:


Jimin – "I need you"

BTS – "Black Swan"


3. Jazz Funk

Jazz Funk combines the strong, powerful movements of jazz with the stylistic elements of funk. It’s flashy, energetic, and often includes a lot of attitude. K-Pop groups like TWICE and ITZY frequently use Jazz Funk to create catchy and memorable dance routines.


Key Features:

Energetic and powerful movements

Flashy, stylish performance

Elements of funk and jazz


Popular Songs:

TWICE – "Fancy"

ITZY – "Wannabe"


4. Waacking

Waacking is a dance style that originated from the LGBTQ+ club scene in the 1970s. Characterized by its fast arm movements and posing, Waacking adds a dramatic flair to K-Pop performances. Artists like Sunmi and Chungha often incorporate Waacking to enhance their stage presence and visual impact.


Key Features:

Fast arm movements

Posing and dramatic flair

Expressive and theatrical


Popular Songs:

Sunmi – "Gashina"

Chungha – "Snapping"


5. House

House dance is known for its fluid footwork, groove, and rhythmic movements. It brings a light and bouncy feel to K-Pop choreography. SEVENTEEN and GOT7 are examples of groups that infuse house dance elements into their routines, providing a fresh and dynamic performance.


Key Features:

Fluid and intricate footwork

Rhythmic and groovy movements

Light and bouncy feel


Popular Songs:

SEVENTEEN – "HIT"

Jungkook – "Begin"


Conclusion

The fusion of these dance genres in K-Pop choreography not only showcases the versatility and talent of the performers but also keeps the audience engaged with diverse and dynamic routines. By understanding these dance styles, fans and dancers alike can appreciate the complexity and creativity that go into crafting a K-Pop performance.



The 5 Common Dance Genres in K-Pop

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