A new television competition titled KPopped is set to reshape the music landscape by pairing legendary pop icons with K-pop stars. The show, which premieres in March 2024, challenges these artists to reimagine their classic hits, culminating in audience votes to determine which rendition is the best.
Among the stars participating is Kylie Minogue, who will see her iconic song “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” reinterpreted by members of the popular K-pop group Ateez. Executive producer Moira Ross remarked, “Kylie reinvents herself as the eternal pop princess, all the while. So, it’s very fitting.”
The show features a diverse lineup, including prominent figures such as Psy, known for his viral hit “Gangnam Style,” and Megan Thee Stallion, who serves as both a star and an executive producer. Filmed in Seoul, South Korea, the program showcases cross-cultural creativity, inviting artists from both the Western pop and K-pop realms to collaborate.
High-Profile Collaborations and Fan Engagement
The competition includes an impressive roster of music legends, such as Boy George, Patti LaBelle, the Spice Girls, Boyz II Men, TLC, and Vanilla Ice. Participants are set to have their songs reimagined by K-pop groups like Kep1er, ITZY, and Stayc. “It wasn’t hard to get the global icons involved. They’re all big fans of K-pop,” Ross explained.
Notably, Mel B and Emma Bunton from the Spice Girls will see their hits “Wannabe” and “Say You’ll Be There” transformed by ITZY, highlighting the mutual admiration between genres. The show aims to bridge the gap between dedicated K-pop enthusiasts and fans of established pop music, creating an engaging experience for all viewers.
Origins and Inspiration Behind KPopped
The concept for KPopped traces back to discussions in 2021 between Lionel Richie and Miky Lee, vice chairwoman of CJ Group. They explored the influence of K-pop on global music, with Richie expressing his admiration for the genre’s rising stars. “All these great K-pop talents are inspired by Lionel, your music and what you’ve created — the great pop culture,” Lee conveyed during their meeting.
As part of this innovative format, Boy George’s classic “Karma Chameleon” will be transformed into a K-pop track by Stayc. The show’s creators hope to attract both die-hard fans of K-pop and those who appreciate the nostalgia of iconic pop hits. “Whether you’re discovering a new genre or reconnecting with a familiar hit, it really is a celebration of great music with talented artists,” Ross emphasized.
As KPopped prepares for its debut, the collaboration between Western music icons and K-pop stars promises to deliver fresh interpretations that will resonate with audiences around the world.
