K-Pop, the globally dominant genre known for catchy tunes, synchronized dance routines, and passionate fandoms, is at a crossroads. Some of the K-pop biggest stars like Seventeen experimenting with AI-generated music videos and lyrics. While K-pop and AI presents exciting possibilities for pushing creative boundaries, fans and industry professionals are divided on its potential impact. With AI already impacting the music industry in one way or the other, does this promise more innovation or is heading towards a more upsetting future in the industry?
Why is K-pop using AI?
Whether you like K-Pop or not, you have to agree that they always go all out. From incorporating different musical styles and bright visuals, the genre always tries to stay ahead of the curve. This explains the industry’s growing embrace of AI. According to the BBC, Producer Chris Nairn, who has worked with K-Pop artists like Kim Woojin, highlights the industry’s progressive nature: “Koreans are big on innovation… ‘what’s the next thing?’…how can we be one step ahead?”
Seventeen, a top boy band known for self-producing their music, exemplifies this approach. Member Woozi openly admitted to “experimenting” with AI for songwriting, sparking discussions among fans. This willingness to explore new avenues reflects the pressure to constantly produce fresh content, as music journalist Arpita Adhya points out. K-Pop groups often release albums every six to eight months, compared to the two-year cycle typical in the West. The artists could be using AI to keep up with the rapid pace.
For fans like Ashley Peralta, AI offers a potential solution to creative roadblocks. She believes it can help artists overcome writer’s block and generate new ideas. However, concerns arise when it comes to the authenticity of AI-generated content.
Will Fans Connect with K-Pop’s AI Made Music?
A core aspect of K-Pop’s appeal lies in the connection fans feel with their idols. Self-produced music, where artists write and choreograph their own songs, fosters a sense of genuineness. Fans like Chelsea Toledo worry that AI-generated lyrics might lack the personal touch that resonates with them. “If they were to put out an album that’s full of lyrics they hadn’t personally written, I don’t know if it would feel like Seventeen anymore,” she expresses. This sentiment is echoed by Arpita, who believes fans value the emotional vulnerability artists express through their songwriting.
The ethical implications of AI use extend beyond lyrics. The inclusion of AI-generated visuals in music videos, as seen in girl group Aespa’s latest release, raises concerns about stolen artwork and proper credit for creators. The line between inspiration and plagiarism becomes blurry when AI tools can mimic existing styles. Western artists like Billie Eilish and Nicki Minaj have already spoken out against the “predatory” use of AI that undermines human artistry and fair compensation. Similar concerns are likely to resonate within the K-Pop industry.
Regulation, Fan Influence, and the Human Touch
The rapid integration of AI into K-Pop highlights the need for clear regulations. Currently, the industry lacks guidelines on acceptable levels of AI use. This ambiguity leaves fans, as Arpita suggests, to “make boundaries ourselves, and always asking ‘what is right and wrong?'”
However, there’s optimism that artists are sensitive to fan feedback. K-Pop thrives on a strong artist-fan relationship, and groups are known for being receptive to fan opinions. If the fan response to AI-generated content remains negative, artists might adjust their approach.
The long-term impact of AI on songwriting remains to be seen. While Chris Nairn acknowledges its potential, he doubts AI’s ability to create truly groundbreaking lyrics needed for top artists. Paradoxically, AI might lead to a greater demand for personal and authentic music from artists. Fans, accustomed to the raw emotions poured into K-Pop songs, might crave a more human connection in the face of AI-generated content.
Ultimately, the future of AI in K-Pop hinges on striking a balance. While AI offers exciting possibilities for innovation and efficiency, it should not come at the expense of artistic integrity and the unique connection that defines K-Pop. As the industry navigates this technological frontier, the voices of fans and artists will be crucial in determining how AI shapes the future soundscape of K-Pop.
