Talking Shit

Glossary of K-Pop Bands

In the global music scene, Korean Pop, or K-pop, has carved a unique and profound niche, with boy and girl bands at the forefront of this cultural wave. K-pop bands often embody a harmonious blend of South Korea's traditional values and contemporary musical innovations. Through meticulous training and a holistic approach to performance art, they project an enthralling spectacle that resonates across diverse cultures and has won them armies of fans.

The names of K-pop bands often hold significant meanings, either mirroring their aspiration or embodying the core theme they wish to portray. However, whilst all names have been the subject of meticulous research and planning, some just appear to be wacky! Here is a complete list of prominent Korean boy and girl bands, alongside the meanings behind their names.

If you love a band that we have not included here, please tell us using this form and we will add them to the list.)

K-Pop Band Name	Meaning
BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan)	Meaning "Bulletproof Boy Scouts", reflecting the group's ambition to block out stereotypes, criticisms, and expectations.
BLACKPINK	Represents the dichotomy of sweet and fierce, with Black symbolizing intensity and Pink denoting sweetness.
EXO	Derived from the term "Exoplanet", symbolizing a new and unknown world.
Twice	Implies that they will "wow" their audience twice - once with their visuals, and once with their music.
SHINee	A combination of 'shine' and 'ee', meaning "one who receives light" or "one who shines".
Red Velvet	A mix of bold and sophisticated (Red) with smooth and feminine (Velvet), embodying the dual concepts they wish to portray.
Stray Kids	Signifying the idea of not conforming to the societal norms and standing out.

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