K-Pop Idols: Inside the Hit Factory

The story

The K-Pop phenomenon is shaking up the pop world. For the first time ever, there is a serious challenge to the west’s domination of the global music industry. Leading the way is the biggest boy band in the world, BTS. But how has this happened? Music journalist James Ballardie travels to South Korea to uncover the secrets behind this worldwide success story and to find out how, in just 20 short years, the music industry in the country came from obscurity to become a major player on the world stage. In the summer of 2019, BTS played two sold-out performance at the UK’s most icon venue, Wembley Stadium. Their catchy pop songs, bombastic beats, good looks and natty dance moves have captivated young pop fans worldwide, and sent them to the top of the charts in the US and beyond. Can K-Pop seriously challenge the west's domination of the global music industry? Music journalist James Ballardie travels to Seoul to meet Soo-Man Lee, the Svengali-like figure behind the phenomenon.

Cast & crew

Soo-Man Lee

Soo-Man LeeSelf

James Ballardie

James BallardieSelf - Presenter

TAEMINSelf

KaiSelf

LucasSelf

BaekhyunSelf

TaeyongSelf

Mark LeeSelf

Ten LeeSelf