Seven K-Pop Artists That Could Slay the States

1. Dean

With his grownup R&B sound, Dean offers the same kind of confident and sexy music that American audiences have fallen in love with from artists like Miguel. His language skills help him considerably and having collaborations with American artists like the Internet's Syd Bennett have laid the foundation for more work in America. Though he isn't the kind of artist that can easily command the top spot with a megahit, Dean understands how to slowly build himself up towards greatness, and could integrate into the American scene with tact.

2. KARD

Although it's been a while since co-ed groups have been popular in any particular country, KARD has offered a breath of fresh air to K-pop fans who enjoy music and performances centered around group chemistry. The group is the full package - they have enough diversity in their vocal styles to not need features, and their four-person package manages to feel like a huge stage presence. The group has already successfully toured America, proving that they have an audience willing to support their co-ed stylings.

3. Black Pink

Blackpink embodies the idea of "coming in hot" - starting off so successful that comparisons are inevitably drawn to experienced veterans. They are entertaining and charismatic, with commanding visuals and fun personalities that they've gotten to show off through social media and variety shows. YG acts seem to have almost surefire chances at success in America, and judging by Blackpink's huge YouTube numbers, the girls would have no trouble standing alongside acts like Fifth Harmony and Little Mix in the west.

4. WINNER

Though it can be argued that Winner got off to a rocky start, the group really settled into their own space over the course of the last year. Though they can still throw down when it comes to hip-hop and electronic, their latest funk and disco style music has elevated their profile and matured their public image. WINNER is a little bit different than any boy group out right now, and American audiences might really appreciate their emphasis on music over spectacle.

5. Heize

Much like Dean, Heize brings a brand of grown woman R&B that Americans who are into acts like Janelle Monae & Kelela would love. As a soloist, she offers a unique charm and excels with throwback sounds in a way that outpaces her peers. As a collaborator, she makes smash hits that hit #1 and sell en masse. Some American promotion would only make sense with the kind of strong foundation that Heize has for herself.

6. Wanna One

Rarely is there a boy group with success as instant and meteoric as Wanna One's. Shortly after their debut, they proved that they could enrapture Americans through their KCON LA performance. As long as we don't have fans chasing them around in taxis and stalking them at restaurants, surely America can offer a nice second home for the boys!

7. Red Velvet

Although Red Velvet had to work pretty hard to reach the level they're at now, their "Red Flavor" is unlike any other K-pop act. The girls are refreshing and fun, halfway between the traditional girl group mold and a bold new frontier. Red Velvet could add diversity to any pop playlist, and bring any venue to life.

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