How Will K-pop Fare Without BTS? Experts Weigh In On Industry's Future

A major South Korean entertainment outlet recently reported that the structure and fandom of K-pop revolves heavily around BTS, and may have difficulties expanding further due to the boy band's enormous fanbase.

The report noted that with ongoing tensions affecting some Asian markets, particularly China, concerns about the development of the K-pop industry have grown. Therefore, with BTS currently on hiatus, some portions of their fans may lose interest altogether, potentially creating a "K-pop crisis."

However, according to financial reports from HYBE - BTS' agency, net income for the third quarter of 2023 increased 5.9% year-over-year to 98.6 billion KRW (72 million USD) despite BTS' inactivity. Growth was largely attributed to solo projects from BTS members. Among them, Suga's 28-stop D-DAY world tour generated a notable 56.1 million euros in revenue, making it the highest-grossing solo tour in Korean history.

HYBE's increasing revenues also rely heavily on solo album sales from BTS members like Jimin's "Face," V's "Layover," and Jungkook's "Golden." Notably, Jungkook's solo debut not only achieved mass sales but elevated his status to that of a new-generation pop star.

With BTS' success, K-pop has many opportunities to achieve global accolades. Cho Chu-yeol, president of the Korea Music Copyright Association (KOMCA), believes K-pop's influence benefits not only the music industry but improves Korea's overall image. Evidence includes V being named a tourism ambassador for Seoul's 2023 campaign, which garnered over 500 million YouTube views.

Some music industry insiders worry about K-pop's appeal declining without BTS and entering a downturn period. However, this prediction has drawn varied counterarguments. Overall, K-pop remains vibrant and expanding, with groups like BLACKPINK, SEVENTEEN, TWICE and more achieving many records. Emerging acts such as NewJeans, Stray Kids, and LE SSERAFIM show international potential.

In summary, K-pop continues spreading globally. BTS members are expected to return after military service ends in June 2025 to resume group activities. Industry sources believe there remains hope for K-pop's worldwide expansion despite BTS' temporary hiatus and China's declining market. What are your thoughts on K-pop's future prospects?