Is This Once-Mocked Korean Music Genre Making a Comeback?

Before K-pop captured global attention, trot was the cornerstone of South Korean music, showcasing the country's rich cultural history. As generative AI technology breathes new life into trot by transforming popular K-pop songs into this traditional genre, the trend has sparked both excitement and controversy. Critics question the artistic integrity and copyright implications of these AI-generated creations, while others celebrate a revival of interest in trot, demonstrating its enduring relevance.

Last updated: 16 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The trot genre is experiencing a renaissance, largely driven by social media and the innovative use of generative AI. Content creators are remixing popular K-pop songs into trot-style renditions, presenting them alongside AI-generated visuals reminiscent of the classic trot aesthetic. Despite the surge in interest, this trend has stirred debate around copyright issues and the authenticity of these new interpretations. Critics argue that these AI adaptations may stray too far from the genre's traditional roots, while supporters view them as a creative fusion that reinvigorates the form.

Key takeaways

Trot is a traditional South Korean music genre that has seen a resurgence through generative AI.
Content creators are remixing K-pop songs into trot, generating significant social media engagement.
There are ongoing concerns regarding copyright and the authenticity of AI-generated content.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey of trot from its inception to the present day involves several key milestones:

1930s: Trot emerges during Japanese colonial rule, influenced by folk traditions and foreign music styles.
1960s-1970s: Nam Jin and Na Hoon-A become the first pop idols, elevating trot's status in popular culture.
2000s: Songs like "Oh My!" and "Battery of Love" epitomise trot's peak popularity.
2020: Lim Young-woong wins a televised trot competition, signalling a revival of interest in the genre.
2023: Generative AI is used to remix K-pop songs into trot, leading to a renewed public fascination.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The recent trend of using generative AI to create trot versions of K-pop songs showcases a new wave of creativity among content creators. Videos featuring these remixes have garnered hundreds of thousands of views, signalling a resurgence of interest in trot among younger audiences.

What was already established

Trot has a long history as a significant genre in South Korea, deeply intertwined with the nation's historical emotions of longing and sorrow. Traditionally, it has been characterised by its unique rhythm, vocal style, and emotional depth, which continue to resonate with older generations.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

While trot itself may not have direct implications for UK consumers, the globalisation of music trends can influence the UK's diverse music scene. As K-pop continues to grow, so does the potential for genres like trot to find new audiences beyond South Korea.

Businesses and jobs

For businesses, especially in the music and entertainment sectors, the crossover between K-pop and trot may create new opportunities. Companies may leverage the popularity of AI-generated content to engage audiences in innovative ways, potentially leading to new revenue streams.

Policy and regulation

The copyright issues surrounding AI-generated content also have implications for UK legislation as it grapples with similar challenges. As copyright laws evolve to address these new technologies, businesses and creators will need to navigate this landscape carefully.

Numbers that matter

17,000: The number of applicants Lim Young-woong outperformed to win a televised trot competition.
1940: The year Baek Nyeonseol's classic "The Sorrow of a Traveler" was released, highlighting trot's emotional depth.
Hundreds of thousands: Views garnered by AI-generated trot videos on social media platforms.

Definitions and jargon buster

Trot: A genre of Korean popular music known for its distinctive two-beat rhythm and emotional lyrics.
K-pop: A genre of popular music originating from South Korea, characterised by a wide variety of audiovisual elements and styles.
Generative AI: Artificial intelligence systems capable of creating new content, such as music or images, based on existing data.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, expect to see more trot remixes and AI-generated content as creators capitalise on current trends. This period may also see heightened discussions around copyright issues and the legal implications of these new forms of expression.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the AI trot trend progresses, its sustainability will be tested. If interest wanes, it could signal a return to the classic forms of trot, or a shift towards other genres that capture the public's fascination.

Signals to watch

Engagement metrics on social media for trot-related content.
Discussions and rulings on copyright issues regarding AI-generated music.
Shifts in the demographics of trot's audience and their preferences.

Practical guidance

Do

Explore trot music to appreciate its historical context and emotional depth.
Engage with AI-generated content to see how it reshapes traditional genres.
Stay informed about copyright developments in the music industry.

Don’t

Disregard the cultural significance of trot in Korean history.
Assume that AI-generated remixes will replace traditional forms of music.
Overlook the ongoing debates surrounding copyright and artistic integrity.

Checklist

Familiarise yourself with classic trot songs and their themes.
Follow popular content creators who remix K-pop into trot.
Engage in discussions about the future of music genres in the age of AI.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The intersection of AI and music raises questions about authenticity and credit. While the trend of generating trot from K-pop may excite some, it could also dilute the essence of trot as a genre. The legal landscape surrounding copyright for AI-generated works remains uncertain, and creators must navigate potential backlash regarding intellectual property rights.

Bottom line

The resurgence of trot through generative AI is a fascinating development, showcasing both the genre's adaptability and its deep-rooted cultural significance. As discussions around copyright and authenticity unfold, trot's future is poised at a crossroads, balancing tradition with innovation in South Korea's vibrant music scene.

FAQs

What is trot music?

Trot is a traditional South Korean music genre characterised by a unique two-beat rhythm, often conveying deep emotional themes like sorrow and longing.

How is AI influencing trot music?

Generative AI is being used to remix popular K-pop songs into trot-style versions, creating a new wave of interest in the genre among younger audiences.

Are there copyright concerns with AI-generated trot music?

Yes, copyright ownership of AI-generated music is a developing legal issue, with ongoing debates about authorship and intellectual property rights.