A dance challenge is short-form video that shows a set of dance moves posted on social media, challenging others to follow along with their own version of the moves.

The choreography is typically catchy and easy to learn, and successful dance challenges go viral social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok and X.

The challenges were brought to Korea by Zico, a K-pop producer, solo artist and a member of Block B, to promote his 2019 release “Any Song.”

It then became a norm in the K-pop industry for artists to barter dance challenges, as promoting a new song as dance challenges with popular idols helped boost views.

One notable example is the group Fifty Fifty, which saw tremendous success through dance challenges.

Despite having a relatively low profile in South Korea, the group’s viral TikTok dance challenge featuring a sped-up version of its debut single “Cupid,” propelled the group to break records on Western music charts, including the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK’s Official Singles Chart.

Similarly, Jisoo of Blackpink scored viral success with her solo single “Flower,” inspiring fans to create their own versions of the dance challenge, often featuring pets in amusing clips.

“The success of a dance challenge relies on creativity and content that makes people want to participate. This doesn’t just mean that the content should be easy to imitate or of high quality,” said Jung Min-jae, a popular music critic.

What is required is a catchy appeal that instinctively draws people in, according to Jung.

“The song itself must have undeniable charm, and planning is crucial. The routine should be accessible enough for the average person to follow, making it suitable for participation. This aspect clearly influences the popularity of challenges,” Jung said.

This is part of a series that introduces aspects of K-pop that will help you better understand the music, artists, fans and business of K-pop. -- Ed.