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K-Pop fans have become increasingly instrumental in shaping their corners of the internet. Since most fans live across the globe from their beloved idols, being chronically online is almost a necessity to keep a pulse on what their favs are up to. Live streams were and are some of the main sources of connection for artists and their fans. However, the increasing popularity of short-form content on digital platforms has led to the rise of K-Pop idols starting their own Instagram pages and groups having TikTok pages, contributing to Gen Z’s online culture.
While the definition of “Gen Z online culture” may be subjective, there’s no denying that K-Pop groups now play a significant role in shaping it—addictive, slightly chaotic, highly shareable, and endlessly entertaining. However, some idols embody the Gen Z spirit—typically defined as those born between 1997 and 2012—more than others. Let’s spotlight a few.
1. P1Harmony’s KeeHo
With his candidness and quips, clips of KeeHo’s live streams have circulated the internet for years. The idol has contributed to many of the group’s TikToks by participating in viral dance trends and using popular sounds, proving his understanding of popular Gen-Z culture.
Aside from the trends, KeeHo is often considered emblematic of Gen Z’s culture because of his unwavering authenticity. He’s interacted with both his supporters and those critical of him, always staying unapologetically himself. KeeHo’s natural humor and outspoken nature has resonated with many fans along with his incredible vocal abilities.
2. LE SSERAFIM’s YunJin
Similar to other idols on this list, YunJin’s ability to converse with fans in both Korean and English has served as a form of social currency in today’s digital age, allowing her to understand and utilize trending jokes and memes. Moments like her viral “baby girl” clip and her aesthetic and occasionally silly Instagram posts/captions have been entertaining for LE SSERAFIM’s fanbase, known as “FEARNOT.”
Additionally, YunJin has been transparent about her challenges as an artist and influential figure. Her themes of self-empowerment in her lyricism have been recognized by her fans, providing comfort for many. In an interview with “Weverse Magazine,” YunJin shared, “It’s always nice to be an influential artist, but I really want to be influential on a human level. I want to be like a safe space that people can relate to and come to for support.” This sentiment aligns with Gen Z’s emphasis on self-expression and genuine connections.
3. THE BOYZ’s Kevin
THE BOYZ’s Kevin has done an amazing job of building his online presence. His relatability lies in his references to Western pop culture. Instagram captions, such as those pictured, reference popular Gen Z slang and phrases that make his content highly shareable amongst this generation. Comedic and admittedly smart timing has been a key factor in his popularity.
Kevin’s Instagram
Kevin’s Instagram
His cover of ‘guess what’ by Charli XCX featuring Billie Eilish is one of the many examples that prove his understanding of current online culture. Other examples include a song made using the sounds of two viral cat related memes/sounds, and his unfiltered responses referencing Beyoncé and Jay Z’s marriage conflicts. His sarcasm and playfulness reflect Gen Z’s humor.
4. NMIXX’s Lily
Besides, literally included “#yesimgenz” in one of her posts, Lily often shares random stories and embodies stan culture herself. The 20-year old’s Gen Z behavior often shines when she shares or hints at the content she consumes. A prime example of this is her admitting that she dedicated a fan account to Taylor Swift a while back. Taylor Swift is undeniably a pillar in Gen Z and pop culture in general. Lily also has shared how she is a Harry Potter fan through sharing one of the books as her recommendation to fans.
Many times, the singer often shares candid opinions or reflects on her actions that viewers find enjoyable and relatable. An example is her reflecting on accidentally spoiling part of Stray Kids’ ‘Lalalala’ during a livestream. Fans found it endearing, viewing it as a harmless, silly mistake rather than criticizing her. The singer has also proven how she keeps a pulse on online behavior and culture through her reference to memes and how she handles potential controversy. From clarifying that she hates melons (the fruit) and winter (the season) to realizing that she admitted that she “might murder someone,” Lily’s remarks prove her knowledge of how the digital space functions and rapidly changes.
5. ZEROBASEONE’s Matthew
You may have seen the name “Moothew” circulating in relation to this idol due to his viral video with the Moo Game filter on TikTok. Here’s the video for your viewing.
This widely shared video boasts a staggering 37.4 million views and 4.4 million likes on TikTok. This success prompted fans to anticipate more of Matthew’s content on ZEROBASEONE’s TikTok. His collaborations with fellow Canadian P1Harmony’s KeeHo are particularly notable. They’ve participated in various comedic and dance trends, including cheeky hashtags—#sigmaface, #newrizzlerjoinstheparty, #makeauraeditsofthem—references that play directly into the zeitgeist of Gen Z meme culture. Matthew is an example of a digitally-savvy idol that embraces Gen Z culture, using it to amplify his appeal and engagement with his audience.
6. NCT’s HaeChan
HaeChan exudes playful Gen Z culture. Often HaeChan teases his members during live broadcasts or their very own reality show. In many clips, he spontaneously showcases his aegyo on camera. He seems to be effortlessly witty and humorous, with his bandmate Mark Lee admitting that HaeChan can be witty in many situations regardless of language. One of his tactics is humorously diverting the attention away from him. He often directs the unwanted attention to one of his bandmates or uses NCTzens as an excuse to get a member to do something he wants them to. HaeChan’s fast and candid responses capture his flair for entertainment.
6. BTS’ JungKook
Though JungKook is on the cusp of Gen Z, JungKook is no stranger to Gen Z’s online culture. JungKook accidentally leaked his TikTok account in 2023 and decided to keep it public. He follows many popular dancers on the platform and often participates in dance challenges, crediting them each time.
@jungkook
JungKook’s personality has also been a great reflection of Gen Z’s appreciation of unscripted content and being “real” on social media. Many clips of “Run BTS,” the group’s personal reality show, still float around the internet due to JungKook’s many playful interactions with his members. His maknae nature shines in his commentary, casual dancing, and candid facial expressions.
Furthermore, his live streams have gained popularity due to his karaoke sessions, his personal thoughts, moments of appreciation for food, his consistent engagement with fans, and even him falling asleep while streaming. JungKook never hesitates to respond to his fans, even utilizing Instagram’s Questions sticker to respond to them. “JK’s” endearing and honest interactions are a true symbol of Gen Z’s style of communication and entertainment.
With the increasing importance of building an online presence, K-Pop idols and groups will continue to study what kind of entertainment and humor sticks with Gen Z and the future generations to come. Who would you add to this list?
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