What is K-pop now? As BTS and Blackpink become global stars, and non-Korean groups enter the industry, we ask what it means to be a K-pop act

• ‘K-pop’ has typically been used to refer to South Korean pop music by young idols managed by major entertainment labels, but that is changing
• Bands like London-based Kaachi, with only one Korean member, have been criticised by many K-pop fans for entering a cultural space they don’t belong in