HEART TOP 100
4.6M+
+1
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Discover Kpop, Kdrama Stories that will excite you.
Experience the ultimate
K-Content fan experience by subscribing to Kpopmap PRIME!
haemil, Kpopmap Editor
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
K-Pop idols and dating programs are ever changing, seeing both criticism and success as the two strive to co-exist with each other.
Dyllan Mykel, Kpopmap EditorOne thing that goes hand in hand with K-Pop are variety programs. With the help of these shows, both veterans and rookies have the opportunity to become better known to the public and earn a following outside of their music. Variety programs allow these artists to showcase their unique personalities, causing fans to fall deeper in love with their favorite stars.
However, one aspect that has remained a sensitive topic for both fans and idols is dating. Even under the premise of a dating program, these idols are put under a microscope and scrutinized over anything romantic. With the boon of dating shows in the past few years and the participation of idols, perception seems to be changing.
Idols being on a dating show isn't some foreign concept, nor was it born overnight. It's gone through its fair share of changes, culminating in both success and pushback from numerous fanbases.
One of the first dating reality shows that included K-Pop idols is the famous "We Got Married". Making its premiere in spring of 2008, it paired various celebrities and had them act as married couples. Some famous idol pairings include SHINee's TaeMin and Son NaEun, BTOB's Yook SungJae and Red Velvet's Joy, along with CNBLUE's Jung YongHwa and Girls' Generation's SeoHyun.
While it was well known by audiences and participants that this was a fake relationship, many became immersed into every single moment, as if they were getting a sneak peak of what these stars would be like if they were to actually date. The pairings produced such incredible chemistry, earning nicknames like the 'Goguma Couple' (YongHwa and SeoHyun) or the 'Bbyu Couple' (SungJae and Joy).
Another dating program with idols that surfaced in 2012 is tvN's "The Romantic and Idol". For its first season, it featured second and third generation idols in JiHyun (former 4Minute), AOA's HyeJeong, Jei (former FIESTAR), SeungAh (former Rainbow), Park HyungSik (ZE:A), GOT7's Jay B, 2PM's Jun.K, and MBLAQ's Mir. The group traveled to Jeju Island where they would stay for 4 days and 3 nights, get to know each other, and hopefully walk away being chosen at the end.
Then there's "SHINee's YunHaNam", featuring the SHINee members themselves. Through the show they proceeded to go on dates with older women, showcasing their charm as fresh-faced rookies in the scene. These programs were extremely fun and romantic, but also produced countless moments that made your entire body curl upwards in secondhand embarrassment.
To become an idol, one must dedicate countless hours of their life to honing their craft. They must reach a level of astounding dancing prowess, vocal stability, and outward charm to captivate the masses and become a chart-topping artist within the K-Pop industry. Of the many things that they can and cannot do, it's to date. This is due to the image of an idol and the fan culture within the industry.
However, with the modern globalization of K-Pop, sentiments toward idols dating have slowly started to change. It's becoming more and more evident that K-Pop stars are more than the vocal and dancing geniuses that regularly grace our screen. They're human just like everyone else, with fans slowly accepting the fact that these celebrities can go around, date, and find love too.
Slowly, but surely, idols have been starting to go out on a limb and have become participants in traditional dating programs, not under the premise of a simple variety program. Rather, they become vocal and sincere in their search for love. Some names include EuiJin (former A.CIAN & UNB) and soloist Sori who appeared on different seasons of Mnet's "Somebody", as well as DaHye (former BESTie) in the most recent "Transit Love 3".
While it was surprising to see K-Pop idols participate in these dating programs and actively look for a relationship, it portrays their human desire to be loved by someone else, outside of their beloved fans.
The beginning of March marked the start of a brand new dating reality program: TREASURE's "Shining SOLO". Where the idol dating programs of the past and ones idols participated in actually focused solely on romance, the series with TREASURE takes a different approach. The members go into the program with the intent of showcasing their various charms and capturing the hearts of the young women they meet. However, it ends not in a relationship, but one member being dubbed as "Mr. TREASURE", erring more on the side of a competition show.
It takes various components from traditional dating programs, while adding on its own spin to create a unique, never-before-seen experience for both the members and audiences watching at home. Prior to its premiere, however, it's worth noting that "Shining SOLO" did not receive a favorable response from netizens.
Upon its announcement, many were left scratching their heads with numerous responses asking if it's real or if anyone would dare to watch it. Even the international K-Pop community who is at times more open were having second thoughts on whether "Shining SOLO" should be something they watch or skip due to the pure nature of dating programs.
However, all the criticism aside, the idol "dating" show became a viral hit, with its first episode being its most watched at 7.7 million views on YouTube (as of April 9, 2024). The sincerity of the TREASURE members, their chemistry with the female participants, and their genuine reactions played a huge part in the program's worldwide success.
Even non-fans have been actively tuning in, falling for TREASURE's various charms. This could very well mark a new era of dating programs for idols. If geared under this lens, there's a fair chance that other groups could follow this model. In turn, they could capture the heart of netizens with their romantic tendencies. However, there's also the possibility that this may become a one-and-done type of occurrence. "Shining SOLO" puts idols in a new light, offering TREASURE the chance to openly experience what it's like to date, while still maintaining their idol image.
Whether or not more groups/companies will create their own "dating" program remains to be seen. However, after the success of "Shining SOLO", it can be a program millions look forward to.
What are your thoughts on K-Pop idols being on dating programs? Do you think they should follow the model of "Shining SOLO"?
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Final voting on IDOLCHAMP has started for the "Asia Star Entertainer Awards 2024", which will be head at Yokohama, Japan in April.
Dyllan Mykel, Kpopmap EditorAhead of the 1st "Asia Star Entertainer Awards 2024" ("ASEA"), the final voting to determine the winners has begun on IDOLCHAMP, starting from 10AM on March 15th. The glamorous event looks to become a place where music, stars, and fans become one.
【ASEA2024日本開催決定!!】
アジアを代表するトップアーティストが出演し、世界中のファンと音楽で一つになる授賞式「ASIA STAR ENTERTAINER AWARDS 2024(ASEA 2024)」、その記念すべき第1回目が2024年4月10日に日本で開催される事が決定!!!#ASEA2024 pic.twitter.com/O0T8APQVVu— ASEA_official_jp【公式】 (@aseaofficial_jp) February 6, 2024
In the ASEA final voting categories, a large number of internationally loved K-Pop artists are nominated for the following categories: 'Best Male/Female Group Award', 'Best Male/Female Soloist Award', 'Trot', 'Virtual', 'Rookie Award', and 'Popularity Award'.
Check out the artists you can vote for down below.
Stray Kids
TXT
EXO
TREASURE
SEVENTEEN
NiziU
VIVIZ
TWICE
OH MY GIRL
Kep1er
Lim YoungWoong
SHINee's TaeMin
BTS' JungKook
Kang Daniel
BTS' Suga
TWICE's JiHyo
BLACKPINK's JiSoo
MAMAMOO's HwaSa
SunMi
Red Velvet's SeulGi
YoungTak
Lee ChanWon
Jung DongWon
Kim HeeJae
Hong JiYoon
PLAVE
SUPERKIND
MAVE
ISEGYE IDOL
RE:Revolution
JD1's Jung DongWon
ZEROBASEONE
PLAVE
TWS
POW
Lim YongWoong
BTS' JiMin
BTS' V
Stray Kids
Kang Daniel
EXO
SHINee's TaeMin
BTS' Suga
BTS' JungKook
NiziU
You can participate in the "ASEA" final voting through the mobile fandom apps, IDOLCHAMP and PODOAL. Once the final voting period ends, the results will be announced at "ASEA", which will be held at K-Arena Yokohama in Yokohama, Japan on April 10th.
"ASEA 2024" is hosted by Newsen, Korea's leading entertainment and sports media outlet which boasts 19 long years of valued tradition. They are also joined by '앳스타일' (@star1), an online entertainment media outlet that has been steadily publishing Star & Style Magazine for 12 years. The prestigious event is organized by ASEA Organizing Committee and Japan's ZOZOTOWN.
Additionally, "ASEA 2024" will have world renowned K-Pop artists and Asian singers who've accomplished several significant achievements over the past year take the stage. They will create an extraordinary experience, mesmerizing fans in the audience and watching from home.
For those looking to support their favorite artist via IDOLCHAMP, Kpopmap is here to help! In partnership with the mobile fandom app, Kpopmap users are able to purchase IDOLCHAMP coupons at a Kpopmap exclusive discount price!
You can head here to purchase IDOLCHAMP coupons today and help your favorite K-Pop artist win "ASEA 2024"!
Who will you be voting for?
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Even the girlies find them enviable… and outright beautiful.
Nessie, Staff WriterFashion and K-Pop have become intricately intertwined over the past few years. Whereas before, K-Pop idols in fashion was for the exclusively successful (think G-Dragon with Chanel), it’s open and much more common now. There are idols here and there that are global brand ambassadors, and are constantly flaunting one designer fashion accessory or the other.
Now, while this is the case with and in high fashion, certain idols—male K-Pop idols—choose to showcase their personal style preferences. Some go beyond to the realm of genderless fashion, and they make it work for them. As you’ll see in this article, there are 6 standout male K-Pop idols that are masters of the genderless fashion style. Even the girlies find them enviable… and outright beautiful.
Yuta is a talented singer and dancer in NCT 127, but those aren’t the only skills on his portfolio. With his budding acting career and fashion ambassador status, the man is bagging it all. We can see his signature flair for unique, non-conforming clothing and makeup. For all we know, his uniquely genderless style might have even been the reason Louis Vuitton scouted him. He very strongly represents what it means to tiptoe that fine line between masculinity and femininity, and he does it unapologetically.
We’d say both SeongHwa and leader HongJoong are the genderless style connoisseurs in this mega boy group, but we feel SeongHwa leans more into the spectrum. He likes to show skin, wear lacey tops and corsets, but somehow manages to remain subtle in all his experimental styling. Now, that alone doesn’t make what he wears genderless. What makes it unique is how he puts on those outfits—those androgynous outfits—and carries himself so elegantly while being in them. If anything screams admirable, it’s certainly SeongHwa.
We think some fans might have guessed TaeMin would be on the list with the way he orchestrates his fashion in his music videos. From the videos of ‘Idea’ to ‘Move’ to ‘Advice’, this super idol is the standard and monument for pushing gender boundaries in K-Pop fashion. TaeMin not only pushes boundaries, he does it in a way that almost makes you believe that there are no boundaries. His genderless style is even more accentuated through his calm and thoughtful demeanor, and measured body movements on- and off-stage. What is not to love about this? Definitely nothing.
As a longtime friend to TaeMin, it’s only natural that JiMin would pick up a few tips. That’s not to say that JiMin hasn’t had potential on his own; he definitely has. JiMIn is one for fluidity, both in his performance, vocals and fashion preference. We love that he’s able to tiptoe lines and push limits, and for sure, the genderless style suits him a little too much.
The8, from the start of his career as a SEVENTEEN member, has always seemed to fancy eccentric and eclectic modes of self expression. It shows on his art, in his solo music, and most definitely in his fashion style. Just with how flexible yet controlled The8’s body is, we already see the genderless in him. Then he puts on an outfit, and proceeds to nail the androgynous look effortlessly. Such talent without having to try, and for fashion? It’s about time a brand hijacked The8.
Ah, Stray Kids’s resident sunshine and co-fashion chingu alongside HyunJin. Felix has been known by fans to have an open-minded personality, not just where people or art is concerned, but also with fashion. His on- and off-stage styles are so catchy in the sense that you can’t really tell if what he's wearing could be for a boy or a girl. We admire his take on the genderless fashion style, and we can’t wait to see what limiting walls he pushes down next.
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Press unlimited hearts and cheer for the artist!
Comments