As a parent, you expect your children to be into the latest Western music, sports, or TV superstars, just as we were as kids. However, in this global world we now live in, children have access to a much wider range of cultures, including those from South Korea.
K-pop (Korean pop music) has become incredibly popular in the last decade or so. If your daughter is obsessed with this phenomenon, then where can you take them? Here, we’ll look at some great ideas.
A Brief History of K-Pop
Before we start off, it’s good to rewind a little and see why K-pop became so popular. Back in the late ‘90s, Korean pop music started to gain some interest in the hearts of American fans. This steadily increased in the next decade with groups such as H.O.T and S.E.S.
Then, in the early 2010s, it exploded into life and hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down. Bands like BTS, BLACKPINK, and EXO have gained huge international followings. The genre is hugely popular for its upbeat songs, catchy melodies, slick choreography, high production values, and carefully curated images of individual performers.
Knowing a few songs and the members is a great way to connect with your child. And who knows, you may get the K-pop bug yourself!
Best Koreatowns in the USA
Now the question is, where can you take them to experience the magic of K-pop? The obvious two answers are taking them to a concert or flying over to South Korea. Both of those options are difficult and expensive, so what else is there? The answer is taking them to Koreatown! Thankfully, there are many in the USA, and here are the best ones.
Los Angeles, California
California is a great place to sample Korean culture, with Los Angeles being the best example. In the Mid-Wilshire district, you’ll find many Korean restaurants, shops, and businesses. You’ll get to enjoy an authentic Korean experience, and your daughter will love it. Orange County and Oakland also have great Koreatowns.
New York City, New York
You can mix in a sightseeing trip to New York with a visit to Koreatown. Midtown Manhattan is a great place to enjoy Korean barbecue, visit a beauty spa, or sing karaoke. It’s like taking a trip to Korea without ever leaving US soil.
Annandale, VirginiaÂ
If New York isn’t for you, head down the east coast to near Washington D.C. Annandale is known for its authentic Korean cuisine and a vast array of Korean-owned businesses. They also have several cultural events throughout the year you can enjoy.
Chicago, Illinois
Situated in Albany Park, Chicago has a vibrant community that is known for its many cultural attractions. Your daughter will love the dance studios, boutiques, and many Korean restaurants that will satisfy their Korean culture craving.
Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta is another city with a high Korean population. K-pop fans can indulge themselves in music performances at cafes, bustling shopping centers, and plenty of K-pop albums, merchandise, and memorabilia.
All these places are a great way for your K-pop-loving daughter to immerse herself in Korean culture. Not only that, but you’ll enjoy the experience while making her dreams come true.Â