Linked above is a thought piece by author Jamie Lovley of
the University of Maine. This article discusses some of the ways K-pop has
sensationalized “soft-masculinity.” BTS, for example, is a boy band that
consists of 7 men who have soft features, wear light makeup, have well-managed
haircuts, and have flawless skin. This, of course, varies greatly from the
narrow scope that is traditional masculinity in the US. BTS’ popularity is
undeniable, as their shows are constantly selling out and they have been able
to hold their place on the Billboard’s Top 100 list consistently. With their,
and other K-pop groups, growing popularity, we may be seeing more of the
soft-masculinity these guys are bringing to the table.
I personally love the idea that with K-pop’s success comes the representation for other forms of masculinity in the mainstream. This teaches a young audience that there isn’t a cut and dry way to embody masculinity and perhaps will encourage them to stay truer to their own self-image rather than the one that society has molded for them. With a variety of representation in the mainstream comes a wider range of acceptance, and as I have stated before in this blog: acceptance is a powerful tool.
Thank you for reading.
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