K-pop, known for its innovation and cutting-edge technology, is now experimenting with artificial intelligence (AI). Several top stars have begun using AI to create music videos and write lyrics. Boy band Seventeen is one of these groups. They sold around 16 million albums last year, making them one of the most successful K-pop acts in history. However, their latest album and single, “Maestro,” has sparked debate due to the inclusion of AI-generated scenes and possibly AI-generated lyrics.
Seventeen’s AI Experimentation
At the album launch in Seoul, Seventeen member Woozi admitted to experimenting with AI in songwriting. He stated, “We practiced making songs with AI as we want to develop along with technology rather than complain about it. This is a technological development that we have to leverage, not just be dissatisfied with. I practiced using AI and tried to look for the pros and cons.”
Mixed Reactions from Fans
The use of AI in K-pop has divided fans. On discussion pages, opinions vary. Some fans call for more regulations before the technology becomes normalized. Others, like super fan Ashley Peralta, are more open to it. Ashley believes AI can help artists overcome creative blocks but worries that AI-generated lyrics could make fans lose touch with their favorite musicians. “I love it when music reflects an artist and their emotions,” she says. “AI can take away that crucial component that connects fans to the artists.”
The Role of AI in Creativity
Ashley hosts a K-pop podcast called “Spill the Soju” with her best friend, Chelsea Toledo. Chelsea admires Seventeen for being a self-producing group, meaning they write their own songs and choreograph them too. However, she worries that AI could impact their reputation. “If they were to put out an album that’s full of lyrics they hadn’t personally written, I don’t know if it would feel like Seventeen anymore, and fans want music that is authentically them.”
Industry Perspective on AI
For those in K-pop production, the embrace of new technologies is not surprising. Chris Nairn, a producer and songwriter working under the name Azodi, has spent over 12 years in the industry, writing songs for K-pop artists. Chris describes the South Korean music industry as progressive and always looking to stay ahead. “It’s no surprise that they’re implementing AI in lyric writing. It’s about keeping up with technology,” he says.
Limitations of AI in Songwriting
Despite his familiarity with AI lyric generators, Chris doubts AI can produce lyrics strong enough for top artists. “AI is putting out fairly good quality stuff, but when you’re at the top tier of the songwriting game, the best generally innovate and create something brand new. AI works by taking what’s already been uploaded and therefore can’t innovate by itself.”
Future of AI in K-pop
Chris predicts that AI in K-pop will increase the demand for more personal songs. “There’s going to be pressure from fans to hear lyrics that are from the artist’s heart and therefore sound different from any songs made using AI.”
Other K-pop Bands Using AI
Seventeen is not the only K-pop band experimenting with AI. Girl group Aespa, which includes AI members alongside human ones, used the technology in their latest music video, “Supernova.” The video features AI-generated scenes where the faces of band members remain still while only their mouths move. This use of AI has triggered mixed reactions from fans. Chelsea notes, “K-pop is known for amazing production and editing, so having whole scenes made of AI takes away the charm.”
Concerns Over AI and Originality
Chelsea also worries about artists not getting the right credit. “With AI in videos, it’s harder to know if someone’s original artwork has been stolen. It’s a really touchy subject.”
The Pressure on K-pop Artists
Arpita Adhya, a music journalist and self-titled K-pop superfan, believes the use of AI highlights the pressure on artists to create new content. “Most recording artists will put out an album every two years, but K-pop groups are pushing out albums every six to eight months because there’s so much hype around them.”
Regulation and AI Covers
Arpita also notes the normalization of AI in the industry, such as AI covers on YouTube, which mimic another artist’s voice. This trend has sparked calls for regulation. Last month, megastars like Billie Eilish and Nicki Minaj wrote an open letter calling for the “predatory” use of AI in the music industry to be stopped. They urged tech firms not to develop AI music-generation tools that undermine or replace human artistry.
Fans’ Role in Shaping AI Use
For Arpita, a lack of regulations means fans feel obligated to regulate AI use themselves, constantly debating what is right and wrong. She is hopeful that K-pop artists will listen to their fans and adjust accordingly. “The fans are the biggest part, and they have a lot of influence over artists. Groups are always keen to learn and listen, and if Seventeen and Aespa realize they are hurting their fans, they will hopefully address that.”
Conclusion
The experiment with AI in K-pop is still in its early stages, and its long-term impact remains uncertain. While some fans and industry professionals see potential benefits, others worry about the loss of authenticity and personal connection. As the debate continues, the future of AI in K-pop will likely depend on the balance between technological advancement and maintaining the emotional bond between artists and their fans.
