From NewJeans to BTS: US University Launches K-Pop Dance Course for Students
Do you want to take K-pop dance courses in college? Students of Professor Oh Chu-yun at San Diego State University will have that opportunity.
Oh says the unique course proves Korean pop culture’s growth from a niche interest to a worldwide phenomenon.
The Korea Times says it is the first time that a prestigious university outside Korea will offer a course on the subject. Classes will start in Fall 2023.
Why would Professor Oh launch a K-pop dance course?
[INTERVIEW] Would you learn K-pop dance at university if there was a course on it? #kpop #kpopdance #chuyunoh https://t.co/0tcKK4w8lM pic.twitter.com/TVCRqyc3sw
— Chuyun Oh (오주연) (@OhChuyun) February 23, 2023
Professor Oh Chu-yun believes that K-pop dance is an essential part of understanding dance in the United States and beyond.
After all, the South Korean pop group BTS shook the world after delivering a speech and performing at the 76th United Nations General Assembly.
You can find fans worldwide, from the United States to the Philippines. Consequently, Oh stated it has grown beyond a mere niche fandom:
“K-pop dance is now a genre that no longer relies solely on fans. Today, anyone can enjoy, teach, and learn K-pop dance, even if they are not dedicated fans.”
Moreover, Oh confirmed, “All SDSU review committees have supported this proposal – some even said they want to take the class.”
Professor Oh said the university’s approach to K-pop dance will preserve it throughout history:
“Dance and music can fade away if they are not properly documented.”
“Although there have been many popular forms of dance in history, not all have been offered as a general education subject.”
Unlike typical K-pop courses, SDSU will offer Oh’s course as an official dance curriculum.
Also, she said she wants to teach a similar course for California State University’s Summer Arts program.
She believes that K-pop dance has similarities with modern dance because of its “experimental spirit,” citing K-pop powerhouse BTS and rookie girl group NewJeans.
Oh said she examined BTS in her book, “K-Pop Dance: Fandoming Yourself on Social Media.”
Moreover, she said NewJeans performances:
“[featured], “vintage, indie music, and fashion, and a fresh approach to idol dance, with their airy hair, youthful bodies, and effortless, cheerful movements.”
Dr. Oh Chu-yun will also elaborate her book further at the Sybil B. Harrington Fine Arts Complex Recital Hall on Thursday at 6:30 PM.
