
How K-Pop Music Videos Are Made: Concepts, Sets, and Choreography

By Cookie K-POP Merch
K-pop music videos are more than just visuals—they’re a masterpiece of creativity, storytelling, and artistry. From jaw-dropping sets to intricate choreography, every detail is carefully crafted to bring a song to life. At Cookie K-POP Merch, we’re diving into the fascinating world of K-pop music video production. Let’s explore how these iconic videos are made!
1. The Concept: Telling a Story Through Visuals
Every K-pop music video starts with a concept. This is the central idea or theme that ties the video to the song’s message. Concepts can range from futuristic sci-fi worlds to nostalgic retro vibes or even abstract artistic expressions.
Examples:
- BTS’s “Dynamite” channels retro 70s and 80s aesthetics.
- BLACKPINK’s “How You Like That” blends bold fashion with a revenge-themed storyline.
- aespa’s “Next Level” introduces a futuristic metaverse concept.
How It’s Done:
- Creative directors and producers brainstorm ideas that align with the song’s lyrics and the group’s image.
- Storyboards are created to map out each scene, ensuring the visuals flow seamlessly with the music.
2. The Sets: Building a World
K-pop music videos are known for their stunning and often extravagant sets. These sets are designed to immerse viewers in the video’s world, whether it’s a neon-lit cityscape, a mystical forest, or a high-tech laboratory.
Examples:
- EXO’s “Power” features a comic book-inspired set with vibrant colors and larger-than-life props.
- TWICE’s “Feel Special” uses elegant, dreamlike sets to match the song’s emotional tone.
- Stray Kids’ “S-Class” combines intricate props and dynamic lighting to create a visually striking experience.
How It’s Done:
- Production designers and art directors work together to create sets that match the concept.
- Some sets are built from scratch, while others use green screens for CGI effects.
- Attention to detail is key—every prop, color, and texture is chosen to enhance the story.
3. The Choreography: Movement as Art
Choreography is the heartbeat of a K-pop music video. It’s not just about dancing—it’s about using movement to convey emotion, tell a story, and create memorable moments.
Examples:
- BTS’s “ON” features powerful, army-like choreography that matches the song’s intensity.
- ITZY’s “WANNABE” includes the iconic shoulder dance move that went viral worldwide.
- SEVENTEEN’s “Hot” combines sharp formations with fluid movements to create a dynamic performance.
How It’s Done:
- Choreographers work closely with the group to create routines that highlight their strengths.
- Dance practices are filmed to ensure synchronization and precision.
- The choreography is often designed to be “point dances”—simple, catchy moves that fans can easily learn and replicate.
4. The Filming Process: Bringing It All Together
Once the concept, sets, and choreography are ready, it’s time to film the music video. This process can take days or even weeks, depending on the complexity of the video.
Key Steps:
- Blocking: The director plans camera angles and movements to capture each scene.
- Multiple Takes: Idols perform the choreography and scenes repeatedly to get the perfect shot.
- Special Effects: CGI, lighting, and editing are used to enhance the visuals and create a polished final product.
5. The Final Product: A Visual Masterpiece
After filming, the video goes through post-production, where editors add effects, transitions, and color grading to create the final look. The result is a visually stunning music video that captivates fans and leaves a lasting impression.
Why K-Pop Music Videos Matter
K-pop music videos are more than just promotional tools—they’re a form of art that showcases the creativity and dedication of everyone involved. For fans, these videos are a way to connect with their favorite idols and immerse themselves in the world of K-pop.
Celebrate K-Pop Creativity with Cookie K-POP Merch
At Cookie K-POP Merch, we celebrate the artistry of K-pop music videos by offering merch that lets fans take a piece of their favorite visuals home. From albums featuring behind-the-scenes photos to apparel inspired by iconic music video looks, we’ve got everything you need to show your love for K-pop.
Ready to dive deeper into the world of K-pop? Visit us at Cookie K-POP Merch and explore our collection today!
🎬 Lights, camera, K-pop! 🎬
Written by the Cookie K-POP Merch Team Follow us on social media for the latest K-pop news, merch drops, and more!