The Growth Market of K-pop and European Music in Asia

Gepresenteerd door:
Songwriting, Politics & Policy, International exploitation & export, Festivals & Venues, Artist & management, Agents & promotors
English spoken
K-pop has undoubtedly reshaped the global music landscape, captivating fans from every corner of the world. But what about the reverse? How can European artists and music professionals tap into the flourishing and diverse music markets of Asia? With the rise of streaming platforms and social media, it’s never been easier to reach a global audience—but success in Asia requires more than just a viral hit. Each market within Asia, from South Korea to Japan to China, operates with distinct cultural practices, music consumption habits, and industry dynamics.

This panel, "The Growth Market of K-pop and European Music in Asia," brings together leading experts to provide a roadmap for European artists looking to break into these vibrant markets. Discover how to navigate the intricate world of South Korean idol culture, understand the unique media landscape in Japan, and learn how to foster meaningful connections in the vast and complex Chinese music industry. Our panelists will share exclusive insights into each of these regions, unpacking the key differences and highlighting practical strategies to build lasting success.

Joining the discussion are three industry powerhouses with a wealth of experience in Asian and global music markets:

Samuel Park — As a Global Marketing Manager at HYBE Corporation—the company behind K-pop powerhouses like BTS and LE SSERAFIM—Samuel Park is a master of global brand partnerships, content creation, and social media strategy. With prior experience at Universal Music Group Korea, he’s played a vital role in connecting international artists with Korean audiences and vice versa. His expertise in cross-cultural marketing and data-driven insights will provide invaluable guidance for European artists aiming to enter the Asian music scene.

Jochem Tromp — Founder of Soepermarkt, a boutique, A&R-driven music management and publishing company, Jochem Tromp’s career spans over 20 years in the music industry. With a history of roles at Warner Music Benelux and Dox Records, he’s become a trusted advisor for artists navigating the complexities of international music markets. Jochem’s work with Soepermarkt has him at the heart of artist development, and his unique insights into the Dutch and broader European music scenes will shed light on how European artists can position themselves for success in Asia. He’s also a regular speaker and host of the Dutch Music Export Talks Podcast, where he delves into the intricacies of music export strategies.

Willemijn May — Multi-platinum songwriter and Billboard #1 artist, Willemijn May’s work spans pop, K-pop, and EDM. She’s crafted global hits for artists like Mike Perry ("Don’t Hide"), Taeyeon ("Weekend"), and Nayeon of TWICE ("Love Countdown"), racking up over 100 million streams. From her early days as a teenage chart-topper in the Netherlands to becoming a sought-after songwriter for K-pop’s biggest names, Willemijn’s experience is a masterclass in blending authenticity with universal appeal. Her success story is a prime example of how European songwriters can establish a foothold in Asia’s booming music market.

This panel will explore practical strategies and real-world case studies on how to bridge the gap between European music and Asian audiences. Attendees will walk away with actionable insights on how to approach music distribution, brand partnerships, and fan engagement in each unique market. Whether you’re an artist, songwriter, producer, or industry professional, this discussion will offer essential tools to expand your global reach and thrive in one of the world’s most dynamic and fast-growing music markets.
Moderator Sprekers