K-pop goes international, literally, with new Apple TV+ programme, K-popped

We’ve all heard those sayings that K-pop’s going international. Yes, it’s true, just look at bands like BTS, Blackpink, Stray Kids and more holding shows across the US, various parts of Europe then Asia.

But Apple TV+’s newest programme, K-popped (2025), is about to present that statement, quite literally.

K-pop groups, take for example bands like Itzy, ATEEZ, and more, are teaming up with wildly renowned top-selling artists. These are by no means small names, and I’m talking the likes of Kylie Minogue, Spice Girls, TLC and more.

Each episode of the eight-part series sees a K-pop group and its international counterpart split in half, and the two battle it out against each other.

Well, at first glance, it feels like a culture shock. In all senses, that is.

But it’s truly a great sign that international stars are not just acknowledging K-pop as it is, but fusing themselves into this whole new sensation.

It’s quite an unorthodox television programme, though. K-pop has seen its fair share of variety programmes, most of which are survival shows, so K-popped’s arrival feels welcomed.

“This has never been done before. This is some history that we’re making,” American rapper and songwriter Megan Thee Stallion proclaims in the teaser.

The 30-year-old star, herself, also collaborates with K-pop girl group Billie to bring yet another refreshing rendition of her hip-hop rap tune, Savage (2020).

Other crossovers include Ateez taking the stage with Kylie Minogue for Can’t Get You Out of My Head (2001) and Itzy performing Spice Girls’ Wannabe (1996).

Well, talk about a coincidence, because the K-pop quintet also has another release of the same name.

K-popped is now streaming on Apple TV+.