The Grammy Museum is set to debut its first full-floor K-pop exhibit, showcasing the music, culture, technology, fandom, and business aspects of Korean pop music. In collaboration with Hybe, the South Korean entertainment company behind global sensation BTS and other international acts, the museum will offer visitors a comprehensive look at the company's artist roster and its impact on the K-pop landscape.
Titled 'Hybe: We Believe in Music, A Grammy Museum Exhibit,' the 4,000-square-foot showcase will run from August 2 to September 15 at the museum's location in downtown Los Angeles. Featuring never-before-displayed artifacts, the exhibit includes outfits worn by 78 K-pop stars, including idols from popular groups like BTS, SEVENTEEN, TOMORROW X TOGETHER, and LE SSERAFIM.
In addition to established acts, the exhibit will also highlight Hybe's junior groups, known as rookie teams, such as ZICO, BOYNEXTDOOR, TWS, &TEAM, and ILLIT. Noteworthy items from Big Hit Entertainment founder Hitman Bang's personal collection, including books that inspired BTS albums, will be on display.
Grammy Museum President and CEO Michael Sticka expressed excitement about the exhibit, calling it one of the largest curated by the museum. He emphasized Hybe's significant role in shaping the global music industry and highlighted the company's innovations beyond K-pop.
Curator Kelsey Goelz shared that the exhibit will offer interactive experiences, including a 'random dance play' session, a Photoism booth for fan photos, and a fan area for visitors to express their connection to K-pop. Attendees can also explore the 'Mono to Immersive' interactive, showcasing the evolution of recording technology through remixed Grammy performances.
Hybe COO Tae-Ho Kim hopes the exhibit will appeal to K-pop enthusiasts and serve as a platform to introduce Hybe's artists to American music fans. He sees the exhibit as a pivotal moment for the company's expansion into the American music market.