XG is at an interesting case when discussing the boundaries of K-pop. Their characteristics blur traditional definitions which makes their categorization as a K-pop group debatable.
Let’s break it down:
- Member nationality: All members are Japanese
- Training Background: They trained under a K-pop trainee system before debuting
- Label: Their sublabel, XGALX, is a Korea-based subsidiary of a major Japanese label
- Content Structure: Similar to that of a typical K-pop group’s YouTube channel content
- Content Language: Their content is primarily in Japanese, and all of their songs are in English
- Producer’s Perspective: Their executive producer has explicitly stated in an interview that XG is not part of K-pop
- Promotion in Korea: In the past, they participated in various Korean music shows, but over the last two years, their appearances have been limited to M Countdown. They have never attended (or perhaps it’s more accurate to say they’ve never been invited to) end-of-year award shows or music festivals, and it’s unlikely they will be part of them in the future.
I guess it ultimately boils down to how one defines K-pop. Personally, I think K-pop is defined by its cultural origins and a strong focus on the Korean language. Given how XG has been promoting themselves, I’m not entirely sure they fit into the ecosystem of what I envision as K-pop. What do you guys think? I’d love to hear your opinions on this matter!
submitted by /u/Carelessies
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