The Appeal of Full-English K-pop Songs: A Fan's Perspective

I've always been a fan of K-pop, and it's fascinating to see how these beloved groups are expanding their reach by incorporating more English lyrics into their songs. From my perspective, the English versions of K-pop hits can bring a unique level of dedication to an already fan-driven genre. Let's dive into some of the English or mostly English lyric songs that catch my attention.

The English Version of Hwaa by G-Idle is one of the best translations I've heard, with Domino by SKz coming a close second. As an English speaker who is not Korean, I still find the Korean versions more listenable, possibly because of the added dedication that goes into them. However, English versions offer a larger understanding of the concept and meaning, which can sometimes be lost in the translation.

English as Fan Service

English versions of K-pop songs are often seen as a kind of fan service. We, as fans, have become accustomed to being catered to in this manner. For instance, some K-pop groups, like ITZY, manage to make their English lyrics make perfect sense, which is no small feat considering the sometimes cringe-worthy translations of Korean lyrics.

It's true that some K-pop groups need to try harder when it comes to English lyrics. Their translations can be so bad that they don't even make sense, which can be a turn-off for English-speaking listeners. Lyrics like those in CRAZY FALL IN. EYES ON ME are prime examples of what not to do. It may be fan service, but it's the type that could be beneficial if approached with more care and creativity.

NewJeans: A Unique Blend

NewJeans is a group that stands out for its incorporation of English lyrics, especially in their hit song Attention. Despite not being a fan of the group, I found this song appealing because it contains about 50% English, making it more accessible to a broader audience. The song is catchy, and the visuals of the members are truly outstanding, adding another layer of appeal.

Aespa: Originating from an English Song

Aespa is another group that has embraced English lyrics, with their debut song, Life's Too Short, being performed in English. The group debuted this song on Kimmel Live in the US, indicating the importance they place on reaching an English-speaking audience. Additionally, the song Dreams Come True has hybrid Korean with significant English, created from the original Finnish song Like a Fool by Nylon Beat, which was later adapted by S.E.S. in the 1990s.

Jeon Somi: Focused on the American Market

Jeon Somi's song Any More is entirely in English and is clearly aimed at an American audience. The theme is very relatable, focusing on teenage emotions, crushes, and breakups. This song showcases the group's ability to connect with English-speaking fans, proving that K-pop can transcend language barriers and still resonate with listeners.

Overall, the inclusion of English lyrics in K-pop songs is a double-edged sword. While it can be a form of fan service, it can also enhance the understanding and enjoyment of the music for a broader audience. As the genre continues to evolve, it's exciting to see how K-pop artists will balance the need for dedicated translations with the creative potential of multiple languages.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to share them in the comments section below. Let's keep the conversation going!