K-pop choreographies are often appreciated when K-pop artists pull them off flawlessly and stay synchronized despite how tough dance moves can get. K-pop fans, especially those who aren’t necessarily dancers, have a lot of fun just watching artists perform instead of actually doing their choreographies.
With the large number of K-pop groups that exist, it has become more difficult to stand out. While some songs can easily stick to the public, it’s not the same case for choreographies. So, it’s an even more amazing feat for K-pop groups to get recognized for their viral dance moves.
Here are some of the most iconic K-pop choreographies that started dance crazes for K-pop fans:
“TT” (TWICE)
Even in TWICE’s earlier years, they’ve already released songs with memorable choreographies that had everyone wanting to dance along. One of these is “TT,” which involves forming T’s with your fingers and placing it in front of your face to imitate the crying emoji used in Korea. Of course, the facial expression here is also important. TWICE members show their aegyo (cute side) when they pout and close their eyes while doing the chorus. It’s a delight for beginners as they can easily follow the steps!
“WANNABE” (ITZY)
When it comes to 4th-generation K-pop, ITZY is one of the groups with a choreography that easily became well-known, thanks to their ‘shoulder dance’ from “Wannabe.” Ryujin’s execution of the move particularly caught the attention of fans and is often highlighted in random play dances. Aside from the body’s movements, keeping your head up and looking confident is also key in performing this.
“DDU-DU DDU-DU” (BLACKPINK)
Since the start of their career, BLACKPINK has released many hit songs. Still, probably their most noteworthy dance move is from “DDU-DU DDU-DU” in 2018. The iconic part of the choreography features the fingers of your two hands forming a gun shape while swaying your hips during the chorus. Dancers usually make this look more sassy by tilting their chin up as they bounce to the beat.
“NOBODY” (WONDER GIRLS)
One of the first K-pop songs to become viral in the Philippines, “Nobody” by Wonder Girls has a catchy English chorus and a distinct choreography characteristic of 2nd-generation K-pop. It involves hand gestures where you point your fingers forward and sway side to side, with claps in between. Due to its simple dance moves, Filipinos back then would often perform this song for school/work presentations or intermission numbers.
“GANGNAM STYLE” (PSY)
Paving the way for music videos with billions of views, “Gangnam Style” by PSY became a worldwide hit with its addictive beat. Even non-fans would probably recognize this song, whether they like it or not. It features galloping choreography inspired by the action of riding horses. This is one of the songs that can get anyone instantly hyped.
“BBOOM BBOOM” (MOMOLAND)
Another song with an upbeat tempo that can make you dance immediately is “BBoom BBoom” by MOMOLAND. With lively hip shakes and distinct hand gestures that even incorporate the finger heart, the song’s choreography totally caught on to many because of its catchiness. One of the members, Nancy, also became popular in the Philippines for resembling actress Liza Soberano.
“GASHINA” (SUNMI)
Marking Sunmi’s comeback to the K-pop industry after Wonder Girls’ disbandment, “Gashina” topped the charts and became one of the songs which K-pop idols loved dancing to. Its choreography involves the flower pose and finger gun move where you mimic the action of blowing away the gun’s smoke. The song has a smooth and sexy vibe, in which an intense expression is the signature element of the performance.
“BTD” (INFINITE)
Probably the hardest one to pull off on this list, INFINITE’s choreography for “BTD” features the legendary ‘scorpion dance’. As the name implies, the dance move would make you look like a scorpion. Due to how it seems to be defying gravity, it not only appears cool, but also shows that someone is skilled if they’re able to execute it. This move has become popular, and several K-pop groups have included it in their song’s choreography or special performances.
Knowing these K-pop dances mean that you’re a true K-pop fan! Whether you’ve tried following the steps to these choreographies or just enjoy watching dance practice videos of K-pop idols, there’s no denying that these dance moves make the song more memorable.
