5 Iconic K-pop Dance Move Names You Need to Know

Since the late 2000s, Korea’s star-studded music scene has seen a surge in popularity worldwide. As K-pop’s dedicated fans learn the choreography, the dances go viral – but it’s hard to learn the moves if you don’t know the famous K-pop dance move names. 

Here’s a roundup of the most iconic moves in K-pop dance right now.

5 Iconic K-pop Dance Move Names from K-pop’s Best Dancers

K-pop choreography is unique, creative, and catchy. K-pop idols train long and hard to perfect these K-pop dances. Here are the names of the five of the most iconic K-pop dance moves:

5. PSY’s Pony Riding

PSY has been in the Korean music scene since the early 2000s and has achieved superstar status. But he began his career on a Korean variety show after studying at Berklee College of Music in the United States. 

He had an international breakout hit in 2012 with the single, Gangnam Style. The song’s success, especially in the west, could be attributed to luck. But it was the funny and engaging dance that had the world entertained. To do this dance, cross your arms and pretend to ride a horse, jumping side to side. This dance is easy to follow and follows a catchy EDM track. 

Here is a dance practice video of Psy doing the iconic movement.

4. AESPA’s Arm Illusion

Although new to the scene, SM Entertainment’s latest girl group proved themselves with one of the most memorable point moves. A viral hit in South Korea and their most famous song abroad, Next Level, came out in 2021 as a remake of a song of the same name from the Fast and Furious franchise. AESPA adds their flair to the song with a hand movement where they push out their arm and bend the back of their hands to form a ‘C.’ 

Here is Aespa’s leading dancer, Karina performing the choreography: 

3. SUPER JUNIOR’s Hand Rubbing

SM Entertainment formed this K-pop group in 2005. But they didn’t enjoy massive success until 2009 when they released Sorry, Sorry. 

This song is rated well for its catchy English lyrics and easy-to-perform point dance. All the members bend their backs to the chorus and rub their hands together after chanting sorry, sorry. 

Here is Super Junior’s lead dancer, Eunhyuk, showing off this dance move:

2. BLACKPINK’s finger guns

BLACKPINK debuted in 2016. Since then, they have had many breakout hits. But their most memorable dance is from their 2018 song, Ddu-du-ddu-du. The K-pop choreography involves placing your hands in front of your chest, index fingers pointed out to mimic a gun while swaying your hips at the titular chorus. 

Here is Blackpink’s principal dancer, Lisa performing the dance move:

1. BTS’ Fire Dance

Having been dubbed the Princes of Pop, the Kings of K-pop, and the biggest boyband globally, these 2013 K-pop idols are known for their synchronized and catchy choreography. Although many dances come to mind, the move performed by one of their leading dancers, Jimin, at the 3:33 timestamp in the music video for Fire rates among the best. 

Fire was released in 2016 and remains a party song for South Koreans. This dance involves bending your knees, placing your hands in front of your chest, and moving side to side in a precise locking movement. 

In this dance practice video, Jimin performs the iconic move: 

What Makes These Dance Moves Special?

The purpose of choreography is to engage an audience. K-pop groups use choreography to tell a story that complements the song’s lyrics or concept through visual media. 

But what makes K-pop moves so special is the effort that goes into adapting steps to suit each dancer. Companies wish to attract fans by displaying stellar performances and try to hire the best choreographers in the business to build these iconic moves. 

How do K-pop Dancers Train for these Moves?

Like how a cellist has to train to play or a doctor has to go to school to practice, K-pop idols endure a training system that prepares them for their debut. 

Music companies screen K-pop hopefuls for potential, talent, and visual presence. Then, they provide the trainees with vocal lessons, dance classes, etc. Each month, these trainees get evaluated regarding how well they’ve learned choreographies. Sometimes, the trainees must develop their own choreography to show what they’ve learned.

They usually:

• Memorize the sample choreography
• Practice in front of a mirror
• Start with basic steps
• Now, repeat until it becomes second nature.

Learn These Iconic Dance Moves

So, are you ready to learn more than just the K-pop dance move names? It’s time to put what you’ve learned to the test! The K-pop dance classes at On One Studios will help you master these iconic moves and gain the confidence and presence of K-pop’s best dancers. And K-pop dance classes cost less than you might think.

Ready to Learn the Moves?

Learning K-pop dance is an exciting way to improve your fitness, meet new friends, and have a blast. Now, are you ready to hit the dance floor? Sign up for dance classes at On One Studios today!