The popularity of Korean pop music has been rising all over the world. There are some seriously positive things that have come out of this (and some seriously negative ones, but we’ll talk about that another time) including exposure to culture, interest in language learning and open-mindedness. Since I’ve been a fan of Korean pop, many aspects of my life have been positively influenced by the genre – none as much as my creativity, though.
Creative motivation has been a huge part of why I really love k-pop. There’s one group in particular that I really mesh with. From concepts and storytelling to lyrics and choreography, VIXX has been a shining example of a pop group that utilizes storytelling elements effectively. It’s always nice to support a group that puts out music you enjoy while also making you think.
VIXX is a six-member South Korean boy group that debuted in 2012 and hasn’t slowed down since. Something that really sets VIXX apart from other groups is their attention to concepts. They’ve even earned themselves the title of Concept Idols, and with good reason. Their fans, called "ST★RLIGHT," have had the privilege of enjoying great music (complete with powerful, unique vocals and strong rap) along with heavy concepts and lyrics. Their music has touched on some dark themes, even when the song itself seems super funky and bright, the lyrics usually relay a different message.
Using choreography to tell a story is another strength that shouldn’t be overlooked. It’s clear that most of VIXX’s choreography isn’t just made up of a bunch of flashy moves. Even if you don’t understand Korean, you can see a story being told with their bodies. One of my favorite instances of this is their choreography for their song, “On and On,” one of the earlier instances that solidified their place as Concept Idols.
As a fan myself, live performances are really important to me. The fact that they stay in character for their performances and really try to convey the story through their arms, legs, eyes, hands, instead of just through the lyrics, is really admirable and inspirational. As a writer, I often wonder how I can bring other elements into my storytelling that will give my audience the sensory overload that I experience with VIXX.
Though they do tell the story with their bodies, it’s still music, so lyrics are important. VIXX isn’t lacking in the area either. One of my favorite title songs is “Error.” To me, this comeback really hit on all the points of storytelling that I appreciate; concept, choreography and lyrics.
“I’m holding my heart in my hand
I chose a life that is for me
I don’t want to let go of myself
I don’t want to ruin myself anymore
Memories that aren’t ending even when it’s over
I have no confidence to win over it
Love, in the end
Is a lie to just one person
Now look at me forgetting you
With your eyes wide open
Don’t ever forget me
Don’t ever erase me”
The music video is beautiful as well, featuring some superb acting by lovely Hongbin. “Error” and Voodoo Doll” are probably my favorite concepts that VIXX has worked with because they both channel multiple storytelling elements and take themselves seriously in a way that gives me goosebumps.
Their recent release “Dynamite,” is the title song for their single album “Zelos” – part one of a year-long project called “Conception.” The project will include other figures in Greek mythology such as Hades and Kratos. The trailer for “Conception” eluded to some dark themes, and fans are waiting to see what VIXX has in store for the year. “Dynamite” is the first release in the project, and the song’s bright sound is contrasted by lyrics that touch on the dangers of jealousy (and may or may not be eluding to some of VIXX’s earlier work).
VIXX constantly surprises fans and gives us stories that we’ll remember. Though fan theories are a big part of any k-pop fandom, I’ve noticed that VIXX’s tend to be some of the most fun to read and discuss, because we’re already given all of the puzzle pieces (even though some of them are almost translucent and hard to see) – we just need to piece them together correctly.
Thank you, VIXX, for inspiring me to work harder in my craft while entertaining me at the same time.
