The Journey from First Listening to Continuous Enthusiasm: My Path with K-pop
I currently listen to K-pop, and I don’t think I’ll be stopping soon lol. My journey with K-pop began in a very intriguing and relatable way. I first got hooked onto K-pop because I saw a YouTube short featuring Taehyung and Jungkook from BTS performing their song 'Lucifer'. The video was nothing short of breathtaking, and it instantly captured my attention. There was an immediate connection. I found myself watching more videos, and that led to me listening to the rest of the BTS discography. It was like a gateway into a whole new world of music that I didn’t even know existed. And that's just the beginning of my K-pop journey.
After getting introduced to BTS, I started exploring other groups as well. The journey was so smooth and seamless, and I was easily converted into a stans of multiple K-pop groups. The music was so diverse and undeniably captivating that it was evident why so many people around the world have become fans. I find it fascinating how a single video can transform your life and introduce you to music that becomes a significant part of your daily routine.
The Impact of Lucifer on My Fandom
One of the earliest milestones in my K-pop journey was when I first saw the performance of Lucifer by SHINee in 2012. Lucifer was the start of my love for K-pop, and it has lasted ever since. The driving force behind my fandom is the incredible music and performances presented by K-pop groups, which have consistently captivated me. I have no intentions of ever turning my back on K-pop. Though my tastes have evolved over the years, and I might not be as impressed with some of the newer trends as I was at 20, my love for K-pop remains unshaken. Music and performances have the power to transcend time and bring people together, no matter the era.
I love how K-pop has evolved with time, introducing new concepts, and creating a global community. From the early days of SHINee to the current crop of K-pop groups, the genre has seen a lot of changes, but the passion and dedication of the fans remain the same.
Continuous Enthusiasm and Love for K-pop
Love for K-pop isn't just about the music; it's about the experience, the culture, and the stories behind the performances and the groups. K-pop has this unique ability to bring people together, transcending borders and languages. I find solace and excitement in the world of K-pop, and it has become a major part of my identity. It's a journey that I'm thrilled to continue.
Despite the vastness of K-pop subgenres and the diverse experiences within the fandom, one thing remains consistent: the love and enthusiasm for the music. We hold on to favorites from past eras, from the 2NE1 and 2AM, all the way to the current Verve moment with APINK and other rising stars. It’s the deep-rooted connection to the music that keeps us coming back, even with the changing landscapes and new trends.
Looking to the Future
As the K-pop industry continues to grow and expand, it's exciting to see how it will evolve in the coming years. Despite the many changes and twists and turns within the fandom, the core love and enthusiasm for the music remain unchanged. Whether it's the latest teaser from K samen or the release of a new single from Tomorrow X Together, it all adds to the collective experience of the K-pop community. I love the thrill of the unexpected patches of love that come at the drop of a hat, much like the surprise releases or the unexpected collaborations that bring all of us fans together in joy and excitement.
From watching Lucifer to getting into the world of BTS, and then to the countless groups I've supported since, my journey with K-pop has been a delightful and enriching adventure. I'm excited to see where this journey takes me, and I'll be here for every step.
Let's continue to celebrate K-pop and the incredible music, performances, and stories that make this community so special!
Update: I still love all the music I’ve ever loved, and even though I may not be as impressed with some of the newer trends as I was when I first started, the unconditional love for K-pop remains. It's a story of growth and evolution. Regardless of where the K-pop landscape goes from here, I'll continue to support and enjoy the incredible music that it brings to the world.