Is k pop westernizing

Modern kpop originated with the melding of Western influences with a Korean environment, so international influence has always been there.

But prior generations had Asia and Korea Proper as the epicenter of the Kpop zietgiest. Though incorporating international influence, the industry as a whole was still very much making music by and for Asia. Kpop, previously, was often out of step with the Western music scene and was pursuing it's own sphere of influence with its own native themes and perspectives, sounds and idiosyncrasies. This is why prior generations often have a different and distinct feel than today's kpop. They were still clearly making it for Asia. And it showed.

Today's kpop is a different landscape. With the zietgiest of kpop looking out from Asia and to the West. This newfound attention, global recognition and increased revenue streams have brought a new era to kpop that many rejoice and has in many ways brought kpop to greater stature abroad.

But as a long time fan of kpop I'd argue it came at a high cost.

A loss of a certain charm to kpop. A certain "by Asia for Asia" feel. A grounding out of the "out of step" nature that kpop once enjoyed that kept it as a remarkable jewel of differentiation.

It's now got the sheen and high production of the international market. The numbers and attention to make the world stand notice.

But it had to shed much of its distinctive charm to do it.

I await the day Kpop returns to Asia, personally.