K-POP Advances Toward Academic Systematization Through New Books and University Courses

The global spread of K-POP is moving beyond being a mere cultural phenomenon toward a stage of academic systematization. Recent publications such as the new book “Almost Everything You Need to Know About K-pop” and the introduction of degree programs in American universities illustrate this trend.

Choi Jung-gyu, the author of “Almost Everything You Need to Know About K-pop,” which was published in South Korea in December, has over 20 years of experience working at international consulting firms like McKinsey and Kearney. He is currently a partner at Boston Consulting Group in Singapore. He approaches K-POP not as a simple music trend or a series of success stories but as a “system.” The author states, “K-POP is not a trend; it is a meticulously designed value chain—a system designed to ensure that training, production, performances, technology, and fandoms all function in harmony.”

This book analyzes how concepts such as choreography, visual design, and narrative function as part of the K-POP system through case studies of various idol groups including IU, Stray Kids, IVE, and LE SSERAFIM. Choi Jung-gyu emphasizes, “I approach K-POP as a system because that is exactly what it is—a highly advanced export engine where cultural and business logic are inseparably linked.”

Meanwhile, educational institutions in the United States are also embracing K-POP as an academic subject. Professor Chuyun Oh at San Diego State University (SDSU) created the first three-credit course in U.S. history focused on K-POP dance theory and practice, turning her university into a hub for K-POP research and education. Professor Oh recently published “K-pop Dance Education: To Dreamers” (Routledge, 2026), a work that offers the first comprehensive exploration of K-POP dance teaching methods through ethnographic research conducted with K-POP idols, industry professionals, choreographers, and educators.

Professor Oh’s research institution, Oniz Lab, operates a government-registered certification program for K-POP creators. Students can receive hands-on training through Seoul National University’s (SKKU) overseas study program “ISK3300 K-POP Dance & Social Media.” This program provides immersive practical training by allowing participants to visit K-POP agencies and music video filming locations, placing them at the heart of where K-POP originated.

Interest in K-POP dance education is growing worldwide. As K-POP establishes itself as a mainstream performing art form alongside ballet and hip-hop, educational institutions are actively seeking ways to incorporate K-POP dance into their performing arts curricula. This book presents educational strategies applicable to various settings, including universities, arts high schools, community studios, children’s education programs, and lifelong learning initiatives. It is regarded as a key resource for studying K-POP culture and global performing arts.