While the K in K-pop stands for Korean, many artists in this genre aren't locals. It still isn’t common to have non-Korean K-pop stars but it does seem to be less unusual than it used to be with popular foreign artists like Lisa, BamBam, TWICE‘s Japanese members, Tzuyu, and many more paving the way for new non-K artists.
Here's a look at some of the foreigners who made K-pop their home in 2021
Also watch: Sneak a peak on 5 K-pop groups that come from reality shows
Rei is a Japanese member of IVE. Born in 2004, she is the rapper and vocalist of the group.
Keita is a Japanese member of Ciipher. Rapper and lead dancer of the group, he was born in 2001
Yoona is a Japanese member of bugAboo. She was born in 2000, and is the vocalist and visual of the group. But she isn't the only non-K member of the group. Rainie, the lead vocalist of the group, is Taiwanese
Kan is a Mongolian member of Megamax. He was born in 1999 and is a vocalist of the group.
Yuki is a Japanese member of PURPLE KISS. Born in 2002, she is the main rapper, lead dancer, and vocalist of the group.