CNBLUE holds the number one spot on the Gaon Social Chart for their single, Can't Stop, for the period ending March 2^nd. While the comeback singles for Girls' Generation and 2NE1 will be factored in to the upcoming chart, the statistics reflected by the current Gaon Social Chart are fascinating. The Gaon Social Chart, which began in June 2013, systematically ranks songs according to their popularity on social media such as Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube. Essentially, the chart factors which tracks are most buzz-worthy.

BTS follows CNBLUE on the chart for social media interest surrounding Boy In Luv. Neither CNBLUE or BTS are traditional K-Pop groups. In their attempts to reach audiences that lie beyond what is considered the most popular Korean music, both groups are effectively establishing methods to reach international audiences. The usage of SNS by labels outside of what is considered to be the Big Three provides an interesting commentary on the future of K-Pop.

On March 4^th, CNBLUE surpassed three million Facebook followers. In preparation for their album promotions, the members of CNBLUE opened official Twitter accounts, which have been utilized by the members to share photographs and information.  Kang Min Hyuk (@kmh_cndr), Lee Jong Hyun (@cnbluegt), and Lee Jung Shin (@mentalshin) held question and answer sessions via their Twitter accounts, with hilarious results.  CNBLUE are also leaders in their variety show participation with Jung Yong Hwa setting a record with ten appearances on SBS' Running Man. The group has used viral marketing tactics to promote Can't Stop, which included passing out copies of the album on a subway during their filming of Guerrilla Date. Their subway appearance not only captivated the interest of fans in Korea, but sparked numerous accounts of the stunt to be shared throughout the internet.

BTS, who came in second on the Gaon Social Chart, utilizes different methods to generate interest. The group periodically releases what can best be described as mix tape or cypher tracks. The songs are released on their official blog and through an account on Soundcloud. While BTS is marketed as a K-Pop male group, the tracks on their Soundcloud reflect a sound that is traditionally hip hop. The songs are uncensored and truly showcase the talents of Rap Monster and the group, over all.

Rap Monster's uncensored 'Cypher Ruff' reflects his strength as a rapper in K-Pop.

As K-Pop continues to market itself to a global audiences, the strategies employed by artists will continue to be innovative. While large budgets are dedicated to album promotion, viral distribution of music through listeners can often be more effective. SoYou and JungGiGo's track Some continues to maintain a number one spot on music chart shows. From a logistical perspective, it is suprising that the song is performing as well as it is. However, Some is a fantastic K-Pop song, which highlights SoYou's beautiful vocals. For Some, Starship Entertainment focused less on promotion and more on crafting a wonderful and catchy song.