FEAR & GREED | Business News K-pop: the hit factory investors want in on
Jan 9, 2026
In this chat, Stefan von Imhof, co-founder of Alts.co and an expert in alternative investments, dives deep into the booming K-pop industry. He explains how K-pop acts are carefully crafted through extensive training and government backing. The discussion highlights the surprising success of the fictional band from a popular Netflix film, which managed to top the Billboard charts. Stefan also explores unique investment opportunities within the K-pop ecosystem, from music publishing rights to collectibles, emphasizing the genre's explosive growth and future potential.
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Government-Backed Cultural Engine
- The Korean government actively funds and promotes a global 'Korean wave' to boost culture exports.
- K-pop functions like a tightly run machine with startups and incubators shaping global hits.
Idols Built Like Startups
- K-pop groups are developed like startups with talent shows and long training pipelines.
- Idols are scouted as teenagers and trained for years to sing, dance and perform.
Fictional Band Tops Charts
- A fictional band from K-pop Demon Hunters topped the Billboard charts despite not existing as a touring group.
- This illustrates how powerful media and streaming exposure can make manufactured acts global phenomenons.