Reflections on Tragedy and Triumph in K-Pop

This chapter explores the impact of recent tragedies in South Korea, including political upheaval and a tragic plane crash, and the somber response from the entertainment industry. It also discusses the evolving role of K-pop in political activism, the challenges of toxic fandom, and highlights the year's achievements, particularly focusing on New Jeans as Entertainer of the Year. The narrative captures the resilience of artists and their efforts to address societal issues amidst changing dynamics in the K-pop landscape.