SEVENTEEN Member Vernon Discusses K-Pop Evolution in 1 New Interview

TL;DR Vernon of SEVENTEEN shared his perspective on modern K-pop production while detailing his new release Singasong with The 8.

Unlike his group's past discography milestones, SEVENTEEN member Vernon recently shifted attention to the broader sound of modern Korean releases during an in-depth discussion. The 28-year-old artist reflected on the contemporary chart performance and stylistic direction across the entire domestic market in a newly published interview with The Hollywood Reporter.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Vernon expressed that current releases in the genre are increasingly blending with Western mainstream music. "I feel like K-Pop sounds more and more like American pop instead of K-Pop," he stated during the interview. He noted that the precision of today's production value has blurred boundaries significantly over time. "I think it’s because K-pop producers always try to bring American sounds to K-pop and make it their own thing," Vernon explained, adding that production teams have become so skilled that listeners struggle to differentiate between the 2 styles.

One notable element is his longing for earlier creative formulas. "It makes me want to go back to the 2000s or early 2010s," Vernon admitted, citing specific acts from that era who created distinct identities. "I think that right now, they got to the point that they’re too good, and you can’t differentiate between K-pop and pop. I think that makes a lot of people want to go back to the old K-pop."

Beyond industry analysis, Vernon detailed his creative direction for "Singasong," a tracklist standout from his new project V8 created alongside fellow SEVENTEEN member The 8. The collaboration draws direct creative inspiration from American duo LMFAO and their viral hit "Party Rock Anthem." Vernon recalled his middle school years when fellow students filled hallways between classes to practice the signature shuffle routine nonstop. That nostalgic memory prompted him to adopt a similar performance style after watching musician Romance Planet shuffle to original music online.

Vernon continues to bridge classic nostalgic influences with modern collaborative efforts alongside The 8 on their new project.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did SEVENTEEN's Vernon say about modern K-pop?

Vernon shared in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter that modern K-pop sounds increasingly similar to American pop. He explained that producers have become extremely proficient at adapting Western sounds, making it difficult to differentiate between traditional K-pop and standard pop music, which makes him miss the distinct sounds of the 2000s and early 2010s.

Which song inspired Vernon's new single Singasong?

Vernon revealed that LMFAO's hit track 'Party Rock Anthem' inspired the lead single 'Singasong' from his new collaborative album V8 with fellow SEVENTEEN member The 8. He specifically drew inspiration from his middle school memories of hallway shuffle dances and musician Romance Planet.