Robert Hitchcock
K-Pop fandom is growing internationally, and that enthusiasm can be found here at Chapman University, where students are embracing the music, culture and community that define the global phenomenon.
Student-Led Club Builds Community Through Performance
One of the most visible expressions of that passion is Twilight, a student organization dedicated to K-Pop music and culture. Founded in 2018, the group currently has about 30 members who meet regularly to connect, rehearse and perform. “The club is an active group on campus,” says Sydney Nomura, assistant director of student involvement. “Twilight recently brought its high-energy performances to Chapman’s Midnight Breakfast during finals week, introducing even more students to the genre’s dynamic choreography and sound.”
Campus Events Celebrate K-Pop Culture and Connection
Beyond student-led performances, K-Pop has also found a home through campus-wide programming. Karla Monterrey, assistant director with student engagement and a self-described K-Pop fan, helps organize K-Pop events once each semester in the Argyros Forum Student Union. The events draw dozens of students who gather to enjoy the music, performances, visuals and shared appreciation for the culture. Monterrey says, “the events are designed to help students connect and build community around a common interest.” One popular element centers on collectible photo cards featuring favorite K-Pop artists and icons, which students place in protective “top loaders” and decorate as a form of personal expression.
Dodge College Brings K-Pop World to Campus
Chapman’s love for K-Pop was recently showcased at Dodge College of Film and Media Arts, where directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans led a Master Class open to all students. Several attendees arrived in K-Pop-inspired outfits as they listened to the filmmakers discuss how they brought the vibrant K-Pop world to life in KPop Demon Hunters, currently Netflix’s most watched film of all time.
K-Pop Demon Hunters Creators Highlight Power to Connect
For Kang, who is Korean, authenticity was essential. She emphasized the importance of representing every facet of K-Pop culture, from music and dance to art and food. “K-Pop is so inclusive, it’s just about the music and good vibes,” Kang said. “It’s breaking down barriers of language and culture. It has this power to connect people from all different backgrounds.”
Appelhans echoed that sense of connection, describing the film as both a celebration and continuation of a global movement. “The movie is a love letter to music, and K-Pop is such an incredible community building formula, it makes people want to share an experience. The fact that we created another little chapter in that story makes us really proud,” Appelhans said.
How to Get Involved
From student performances and campus events to conversations with industry creators, K-Pop continues to bring Chapman students together through shared energy, creativity and community.
Students interested in the K-Pop student club Twilight can find more information on Chapman Connect.
