The popularity of K-pop continues to rise dramatically, with global streams on Spotify experiencing an astounding increase of over 362% since 2018, and 182% within the U.S., as highlighted in a recent report. This surge has been further propelled by the phenomenal success of “K-pop Demon Hunters,” which has claimed the title of Netflix’s most-watched film ever.
In Charlotte, excitement has peaked with the announcement that TWICE, a leading girl group in the K-pop scene, will perform at the Spectrum Center in March 2026. This event marks a pivotal moment for the city, as it hosts its third major K-pop act, following the earlier performances of Aespa and TXT, the first Korean boy band to headline Lollapalooza in 2023.
Local businesses are benefiting from this growing interest in K-pop. Nhan Nguyen, who moved from Boston to establish the K-pop merchandise store Oh Seoul Happy in Charlotte, has witnessed a surge of new fans, many of whom are eager to explore the genre. “We’re getting a lot of new fans because of the movie K-pop Demon Hunters,” said Stacy Naovarath, Nguyen’s partner. The demand for K-pop merchandise has increased, with many customers seeking recommendations for new artists and albums.
K-pop’s allure lies beyond its infectious melodies and visually captivating performances. The genre fuses various musical styles, including pop, hip-hop, and R&B, and features artists who invest years in training before debuting. K-pop stars maintain a constant connection with their audience through diverse content, from vlogs and reality shows to dramatic music videos, enhancing their multi-faceted appeal.
Nguyen notes that K-pop albums, akin to collectible items like Pokémon cards, attract fans with their artistic packaging and additional materials like photo books and photocards. This intricate approach to album releases transforms them into events, growing a dedicated collector base.
Charlotte’s K-pop community is expanding, highlighted by the influx of various K-pop groups over the past years. Local fan groups like NC K-pop Hive, founded to promote K-pop culture, are instrumental in connecting fans across North Carolina. Lewis, a member of this community, emphasizes the importance of creating an accessible space for fans to engage with K-pop and learn more about it.
With the upcoming performance of TWICE, hopes are high that Charlotte will soon capture the attention of more mega acts like BTS and Blackpink. Despite having a relatively small Korean population, K-pop’s cultural influence and economic impact in North Carolina are on the rise, as demonstrated by the success of global tours from groups like Stray Kids and Seventeen.
Efforts by local businesses like Oh Seoul Happy and community organizations aim to cement Charlotte as a key player in the K-pop scene, much like larger cities such as Atlanta and New York. With a supportive community and seemingly endless interest, North Carolina’s K-pop moment is just beginning, fueled by enthusiastic fans and unforgettable performances.
Fans are encouraged to stay connected with updates on concerts and K-pop events in North Carolina by following local businesses and community groups like Oh Seoul Happy and NC K-pop Hive on social media. The excitement leading up to TWICE’s concert on March 31, 2026, promises to contribute significantly to Charlotte’s vibrant K-pop landscape.