I’ve been a fan of Kpop for over 10 years now, and I’ve noticed a shift in how new groups are put together. I’m not saying these newer idols are necessarily lacking talent; more that they’re just passable, like they’re okay, not bad, but not exceptional. However, it feels like we’re no longer getting the best of the best when it comes to skill. These days, it seems like companies are scouting for visuals first and worrying about talent as an after thought. And trust me, I understand looks have always been important in Kpop, even from the very start, this isn't a new phenomenon but it feels like this is happening more frequently. Back then, there was usually more of a mix. You’d have your conventionally attractive members alongside members who maybe didn’t perfectly match Korean beauty standards but could sing, rap, produce or dance circles around everyone else. The industry still valued raw skill enough to make room for it, even if someone wasn’t a “perfect” visual. Now, it feels like almost every new group that comes out is made up entirely of members who match the beauty standard perfectly. They all look nice, but a lot of them feel average in skill compared to past generations. The standout vocalists, rappers, and dancers are getting harder to find because companies aren’t looking for “the best,” they’re looking for “good enough” as long as the visuals are there. No one is really blowing me away anymore the way some idols used to. Back then, if someone wasn’t the best visual, their talent would carry them. That balance seems to be missing within groups. And honestly, I think that’s part of why I’ve fallen out of love with Kpop lately. Without that mix of skill levels and unique talent, it’s hard to stay excited when it seems like actual ability is being overlooked in favor of a pretty face. I can’t help but think this will be detrimental to Kpop's growth in the long run. Or maybe I’m just an old fan complaining about “how it used to be,” with nostalgia and rose tinted glasses but it feels like this is the way things have shifted a lot more lately. submitted by /u/Stxrri [link] [comments]