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IJMSTA - Vol. 3 - Issue 2 - July 2021
ISSN 2612-2146
Pages: 8
Audio Engineering Technology in the K-pop Industry
Authors: M.K. Shim
Categories: Journal
Abstract - This research involves the identification of unique audio engineering techniques used in one of the major music-industries, K-pop. The distinctiveness of audio engineering techniques manifested in K-pop music has not been deeply explored in previous K-pop related research. Using the case study method, this paper will analyze two songs, "Magic Shop" and "Fake Love" from the K-pop group BTS. BTS was chosen for both case studies as they are one of the biggest K-pop groups that propelled K-pop culture. Secondly, this research involves an in-depth analysis of both songs. By assessing both songs instrument-by-instrument and analyzing its weight, tone, and richness the paper broke down each track involving the actual engineering techniques that the audio engineers implemented for each song. To achieve the results, the paper extracted multiple identical engineering techniques used from the case study. Results show that K-pop audio engineers prioritize overall richness and brightness in the song while having enough space for the bass and kicks to emphasize its heaviness. Furthermore, this research may also suggest a reason for how the key concept of "uniqueness" has led to the success of the K-pop industry.
Keywords: K-pop, Audio Engineering Techniques, Distinctiveness of K-pop Audio Engineering
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