Korean "B-boys" Take Worldwide Lead in Break Dancing

Break dancing is becoming popular in Korean youth culture, especially in the music industry. (photos: BostonKAP.com)

The popularity of break dancing in Korean pop culture, especially in its musical industry, led to the rise of Korean B-boys’ popularity.  

Many musical artists incorporate break dancing into their performances and music videos, such as “Canon in D” (2006) and “South Korea vs. North Korea” (2005).  Both of these music videos feature famous DJs, musical artists and B-boys. 

Korean pop singers, notably Se7en and Rain, frequently insert break-dance moves into their performance choreographies.

Another notable development in Korea is the appearance of break dancing in other artistic forms, such as stage performance.  Today, various musicals and theatrical productions showcase breakdancing, for example, in “A Ballerina Who Loved A B-Boy,” the story of a ballerina and her love for break dancing. 

Several factors seem to contribute to the popularity of break dancing in Korea.  A limited choice for amusement and entertainment among young adults is a contributing factor. 

Break dancing places emphasis on teamwork and collaboration, which may be yet another possible reason. With ever increasing cut-throat competition in academics, students who are interested in dancing now more than ever are choosing “non-traditional” dancing careers. 

For many followers, break dancing is a passion.  Working full time during the day and having studio rehearsals at night, Korean break-dance enthusiasts demonstrate passion for dancing unrivaled in other countries. 

This passion, coupled with stiff competition, is a recipe for highly successful teams.

Some even believe that Korean culture has many intrinsic similarities with the hip-hop culture.  Korean-American B-boy Charlie Shin, 26, suggested that both the Korean and hip-hop cultures were founded out of a "consuming passion," or han in Korean.

Today, Korean B-boys lead the world of break-dancing competition with their unique brand of style. 

Korea’s famous B-boy crews are Gambler Crew, Drifterz Crew, Rivers Crew and Extreme Crew, among many others.  Recordings of their performances are even used in Europe as instructional material.

A prominent Italian B-boy said, “Korean B-boys are the world’s best. I hope to share their performances through recordings online.”

However, despite the recent rise in popularity, break dancing is still relatively new in Korea and lacks the history and presence it holds in some other countries. 

source:  BostonKAP.com

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