INSIGHT

K-Pop dance challenges are no longer just a Korean trend. They’ve gone global. Fans from all over the world are seen on social media covering the choreography of K-Pop idol groups. Today, the challenges are a language and a global trend that invites the world to dance together.

Take ROSÉ’s “APT.”, for example. Last year, the song topped Billboard’s Global chart for two weeks and the music video hit 100 million views in just five days. Its simple, hand-crossing choreography inspired a viral challenge that spread across the globe participated by everyone from regular people to international celebrities. Here’s the twist: both the song and dance were inspired by a popular Korean drinking game called “Apartment.” It’s certainly a cultural detail that resonated especially with fans in their 20s and 30s, and the challenge, in essence, was a trendy reinterpretation that spread another aspect of everyday Korean culture.

BIBI’s “Bam Yang Gang” was released in 2023 and took the K-Pop challenge by storm with its catchy hook and minimalistic choreography. “What’s Bam Yang Gang?” was the question that took a hold of international fans, and it spread quickly across TikTok along with the meme culture. Moreover, the challenges were about having fun trying to pronounce the unfamiliar Korean lyrics precisely. Not only that, the sales for yanggaeng actually went up thanks to the popularity of the challenge, and some brands even presented collaboration products and redesigned packages. “Bam Yang Gang” wasn’t just a song, but a link that shows music can continue onto consumption of the Hallyu.

Ever wondered where those cool challenge videos are filmed? Beyond music show green rooms or hallways, there are real-world spots perfect for filming K-Pop dance challenges. Here are a few spots for you to film your challenge videos!

The “Denim Challenge” by G-Dragon and BSS (SEVENTEEN) began from a special meeting among them through a variety show called Good Day. In the challenge video, they are in matching denim pants in a stylish pub called UNDERGROUND, and vibing with the rhythm. The video went viral thanks to their natural chemistry as well as their unique fashion style and relaxed energy. So this is a perfect spot for you to recreate that vibe.

Then there’s the “Strategy Challenge” by TWICE’s Dahyun and ITZY’s YEJI. The backdrop of this challenge video is the serene traditional Hanok, and the ladies come out in traditional Hanbok as they dance. The location of this impressionable challenge video is the Hanok café Sunwoongak nestled in Bukhansan, Seoul. This stunning blend of K-Pop and heritage is the perfect spot for those looking to add a traditional touch to their K-Pop challenge.

The rising rookie group IZNA is also notable for their challenge video. The “IZNA Challenge” revealed through the YouTube channel, JAYKEEOUT, not only caught the attention of the passersby in their tracks but also global fans thanks to their quality performance. In particular, the “Everyone’s Street” at Yonsei University campus where the video was filmed is the perfect place to experience the high energy unique to university towns.

In order to film a great dance challenge video in Korea, it is vital to know all the right moves of the choreographies. But fear not, because there are tons of dance classes in Korea open to both foreigners and beginners.

Real K-Pop Dance offers classes tailored to tourists from abroad. Even if you’ve never danced before, their easy-to-follow curriculum and supportive instructors will have you performance-ready by the end of the lesson. And you’ll be all set to film a K-Pop challenge video immediately. Don’t forget that you can also get free photos, videos, and a certificate to remember the experience!

1MILLION Dance Studio is another top pick. It offers dance classes at its headquarters in Seoul’s Seongsu area, and it is known as the mecca of K-Pop performance. This studio is not just for training anymore. It is the place that countless fans from around the world visit. And it is also home to famous choreographers from Street Woman Fighter. The classes are beginner-friendly, and dancers of 1MILLION teach the signature K-Pop choreography in an easy-to-follow and fun way. So if you want to experience K-Pop fully, this is the perfect program for you.

There are bound to be foreigners who want to experience Korean culture themselves amidst the global K-Pop craze. The K-Pop dance class offered by DANCEJOA is a great program that is featured on various Korean and international TV shows. If you’re not available to visit Korea, it even offers online lessons that you can join anytime, anywhere. So why not come closer to K-Pop through this class that will connect you whenever, wherever?

| K-Pop dance challenges have become a form of entertainment that anyone can participate in no matter where they are from. What is your most memorable K-Pop dance challenge?