Through 'K-Pops!,' Anderson .Paak sought deeper familial connection - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Miki Hellerbach

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Anderson .Paak, the Grammy-winning artist, turned to K-pop during the pandemic to reconnect with his son Soul after noticing their shared love for BTS bridged a gap in their relationship. This led him to direct and star in *K-Pops!* a film that explores intergenerational and intercultural connections through their mutual obsession with Korean pop culture. The movie, which debuted in Los Angeles theaters, highlights how .Paak’s son Soul became deeply engrossed in K-pop, shifting his focus from his father’s music to BTS. This shift initially felt isolating for .Paak but eventually inspired him to create a project that celebrated their shared bond. During the pandemic, .Paak and Soul bonded over humorous skits and dance videos featuring BTS choreography, which not only strengthened their relationship but also sparked an idea for *K-Pops!*. The film, produced with Stampede Ventures and Live Nation Studios, captures their journey of bridging generational gaps through music. .Paak’s unique perspective as a Black American with Korean heritage adds depth to the project, reflecting his admiration for the family values he observed in Korean culture. The movie also serves as a testament to the power of shared interests in fostering connections across generations and cultures. By blending humor, dance, and music, *K-Pops!* showcases how .Paak and Soul found common ground through K-pop while exploring their individual identities. This story resonates with readers interested in cultural exchange and the universal language of music, offering a fresh take on family bonds in a rapidly globalizing world.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/23/2026