Lionel Richie and Megan Thee Stallion Talk “KPOPPED”, Cultural Exchanges and Becoming ‘Besties’ with Patti LaBelle (Exclusive)

Lionel Richie and Megan Thee Stallion discuss their participation in ‘KPOPPED’ as reported exclusively to PEOPLE. The series premiered on Apple TV+ on August 29, showcasing collaborations between western music icons and K-pop stars such as Patti LaBelle, Kylie Minogue, J Balvin, and Kesha. Richie and Megan shared their insights and experiences leading up to the show’s debut.

Richie, aged 76, expressed his enthusiasm for surprising audiences and embracing cultural exchanges through the show. He highlighted the inclusion of K-pop stars, well-known artists, and a competitive element as key components. Megan, 30, reciprocated the excitement by describing her interest in learning and exploring while filming the series in Seoul. She found the experience to be a perfect balance of work and fun, akin to a vacation rather than a job.

The eight-part series not only features musical collaborations but also showcases interactions between western superstars like Megan, Patti Labelle, and others with K-pop groups such as ITZY, Ateez, and Blackswan. The artists are tasked to reimagine their hit songs and perform them for a Seoul-based audience, who then decide the best new K-pop’d song. Megan and Richie were particularly impressed by Patti LaBelle’s involvement in the show, forming a close bond with her throughout the process.

Reflecting on the cultural exchange aspect, Richie and Megan acknowledged the importance of stepping into unfamiliar territories and embracing new experiences. The show not only focused on music but also highlighted moments where Megan explored different cuisines and traditions in Seoul. Megan’s genuine interest in learning and appreciating diverse cultures shone through as she immersed herself in the local scene, visited art museums, indulged in authentic cuisine, and experienced the vibrant nightlife.

Despite the language and cultural barriers, Megan found joy in connecting with the locals and experiencing the essence of Korean culture firsthand. Her visit included exploring local markets, trying unique dishes, and even stumbling upon a bar playing hip-hop music, adding an unexpected twist to her Korean adventure. For Megan, the trip was not just about creating music but also about creating lasting memories and understanding the universal language of music.

As the series continues to stream, viewers can witness the fusion of western and K-pop influences, celebrating the power of music to connect individuals across different backgrounds and languages. The show serves as a reminder of the shared humanity and joy that music brings, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural differences. Through ‘KPOPPED’, Richie and Megan have not only entertained audiences but have also contributed to a broader conversation on unity and artistry in the global music landscape.