The Canadian Encyclopedia — neutral, cited, updated
July 26, 2026Sources cited
Canadianwire.
Canada’s encyclopedia & explainer
HomeEntertainmentK-popGangnam Style
Entertainment • K-pop

Gangnam Style

"Gangnam Style" is a 2012 K-pop song by South Korean singer Psy, released as the lead single from his sixth studio album, *Psy 6 (Six Rules), Part 1*.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

"Gangnam Style" is a 2012 K-pop song by South Korean singer Psy, released as the lead single from his sixth studio album, *Psy 6 (Six Rules), Part 1*. The title refers to a lifestyle associated with Seoul's Gangnam district, and the song became a major global viral hit. It is also known for its widely imitated horse-riding dance and music video. The song was a major international pop-culture phenomenon that also reached Canadian audiences through radio, television, and internet virality, contributing to broader awareness of K-pop in Canada.

Background

"Gangnam Style" was released on July 15, 2012, by YG Entertainment. It was issued by Psy as the lead single from *Psy 6 (Six Rules), Part 1*.

Meaning

The title refers to the Gangnam district of Seoul and the lifestyle associated with it. Sources describe the term as referring to trendy, affluent, or class-conscious behaviour, and the song has often been interpreted as satirical.

Reception and impact

The song became a global internet phenomenon, largely because of its music video and the horse-riding dance. It is widely credited with expanding international awareness of K-pop.

Cultural significance

"Gangnam Style" is often discussed as an example of a viral music meme and as a song that satirized status culture in Seoul. Its popularity made Psy one of the best-known Korean pop artists worldwide.

Key facts

  • Released as the lead single from Psy's sixth studio album.
  • The phrase "Gangnam Style" refers to a lifestyle associated with Seoul's Gangnam district.
  • The song became internationally famous for its viral music video and dance.
  • It is widely described as a satirical or playful take on status and affluence in Gangnam.
  • The song helped bring wider global attention to K-pop.
🍁
Canadian context

The song was a major international pop-culture phenomenon that also reached Canadian audiences through radio, television, and internet virality, contributing to broader awareness of K-pop in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

What is "Gangnam Style"?
"Gangnam Style" is a 2012 K-pop song by Psy and also the title of its famous music video.
What does "Gangnam Style" mean?
It refers to a lifestyle associated with Seoul's Gangnam district, often linked to affluence, fashion, and social status.
Who performed "Gangnam Style"?
South Korean singer Psy performed and released the song.
When was "Gangnam Style" released?
It was released on July 15, 2012.
Why did the song become famous?
Its upbeat sound, memorable dance, and highly shareable music video made it a viral global hit.
Is the song satirical?
Many sources describe it as a satire or playful critique of wealth and status culture in Gangnam.

References

  1. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gangnam_Style
    Supports: Release date, artist, label, album, and general definition of the title.
  2. Dictionary.comhttps://www.dictionary.com/culture/slang/gangnam-style
    Supports: Basic meaning of the term and its connection to Psy and the music video.
  3. Collins English Dictionaryhttps://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/submission/5668/Gangnam+Style
    Supports: Definition of the phrase as a Korean neologism describing a Gangnam-associated lifestyle.
  4. Today I Found Outhttps://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2012/12/what-does-gangnam-style-mean/
    Supports: Explanation of Gangnam as a wealthy area of Seoul and the lifestyle reference.
  5. Business Insiderhttps://www.businessinsider.com/gangnam-style-translation-2012-9
    Supports: Interpretation of the song as satire of Seoul's wealthiest district.
  6. DevXhttps://www.devx.com/terms/gangnam-style/
    Supports: Description of the song as a viral pop song and its dance/video popularity.