Veteran Artists And Audition Stars Still Dominate K-Pop

New music is fun, and the older music is comforting.

That's the current state of K-Pop in one sentence. Not only do they get the best of both new and old music, but they have the chance to see the audition stars blossom into real stars as well. There is also the fact that the comeback of several prominent veteran stars have made for a more comforting, nostalgic listening experience for the older listeners. The comeback of stars such as Lee Sun Hee, Lee Seung Hwan, Lee So Ra, and Lim Chang Jung excited the older fans more than the comeback of idol groups. Audition-tested stars such as Akdong Musician, 15&, 2000 Won, and Eddy Kim are enjoying high levels of success as well. The only one group that can back the K-Pop scene back to idol groups's favor is EXO, but they have graciously decided to delay their comeback - and as a result, the current state of K-Pop will continue for the time being.

The top shelf audition star in K-Pop right now is undoubtedly Akdong Musician (shortened to AkMu). The were the winners of "K-Pop Star 2," and they came back on the stage of "K-Pop Star 3" with their title song "Melted" and "200%". Their album, PLAY, placed 2nd on the Billboard World Album Chart. Their title song "200%" placed 5th in the Billboard World Digital Song Chart. They dominate every digital category in Korea at the moment, including streaming, download, mobile, album, and BGM use. The winner of "K-Pop Star 1" is Park Jimin, and she is currently performing as 15& with Baek Yerin. Their single, "Can't Hide It," was also performed on the stage of "K-Pop Star 3" and immediately rose to the top of the online charts including Olleh Music, Mnet, Soribada, and Bugs to compete with AkMu. There are also former audition stars debuting along with AkMu such as 2000 Won, Eddy Kim, Park Si Hwan, and Eric Nam. The new audition stars cover a variety of music between them, including R&B, Ballad, and New Disco.

What about the veterans? Their strength lies in the fact that their fans are prone to buying albums offline. Lee So Ra's offline album sales for her new album are ranked 4th in the nation with Lee Seung Hwan and Lee Sun Hee 6th and 7th on that list. AkMu is 5th on that list. The veteran stars are showing everyone that they are still very much relevant.

As is the case, music lovers have the luxury of having the best of both worlds - the old school artists' blossomed musicianship is a wonderful thing to be able to enjoy as is the new school artists' raw talent and developing musical talent.

Tags
Lee Sun Hee
Lee Seung hwan
Lee So Ra
Lim Chang Jung
akdong musician
15&
2000 Won
Eddy Kim
EXO
Melted
200%
play
Can't Hide It
Park Si Hwan
eric nam
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