From Atlases to Oppa: A Geography Teacher Unexpectedly Finds Inspiration in ‘Gangnam Style’

Despite her daily hectic life, Aparupa Barua, a dedicated Geography teacher in her 50's from India finds interest in Korean pop and shares what her love for Korean pop means to her.

Amidst the punctuated bells, lessons, and laughter echoing through the bustling corridors, you'll find a teacher who, each day, inspires young minds in a classroom where maps line the walls and globes spin under curious fingers - a woman whose world stretches far beyond geography. She is a mother to two grown sons, a devoted wife, and a passionate educator who has also discovered a liking for Korean pop music.

Her first brush with Korean pop music wasn’t out of the ordinary - like millions across the globe, it was PSY’s Gangnam Style that made her raise an eyebrow and tap her feet. Years later, Chicken Noodle Soup by BTS’s J-hope stirred a new curiosity. But it wasn’t until she turned 50 that K-pop became a part of her daily Spotify playlist.

“I saw some reels—BTS, Stray Kids, Ateez—and that was it,” she smiles.

“Those synchronized dance routines, the energy—it just pulled me in.”

Despite her rigorous schedule that starts at 5 AM and often winds down only after midnight, this geography teacher finds solace and energy in music. “I mostly listen to K-pop while returning from work or doing chores. It’s a de-stresser, really,” she explains.

She’s a cool mother, a caring wife, and a passionate teacher. “I love teaching, and I love the fact that every day I get to face new challenges and learn at least one new thing.”

Her love for music, however, started way back when she was a quiet kid who absolutely adored reading books. She would rock out to metal songs - along with a few Michael Jackson hits - leaving her neighbors unsure whether to be concerned or simply surrender to the rhythm. With liberal and chill parents, she was allowed to blast those songs and enjoy herself, even outdoors. However, one strict rule was never broken: she always came home before dark.

Her favorites, too, follow a strict rule—of being “awesome,” as she puts it.

What are her favorites? It’s a long and evolving list.

“BTS, of course. But I also love songs like Wonderland, Fever, Silver Light, and Ice on My Teeth by Ateez, Snooze by August D, and Paper Cuts by Woosung. Each one has its own magic.”

Being a fan has even made her a bit of a surprise hit among some of her students.

“Only a few know, but those who do—well, they think I’m pretty cool,” she says. “My kids and their friends are amused too. They never quite know what to expect from me!”

While K-pop didn’t shape who she is—her values, work ethic, and personality were firmly in place long before - it became something she grew to love as she gradually overcame the struggles in her life.

And what about dreams of becoming an idol? She chuckles. “Way too late for that - and I can't dance or sing to save my life! I'm happy being a fan.”

As someone who has embraced new passions well into her fifties - balancing life as a teacher, mother, and fan—she stands as a quiet reminder that it's never too late to find joy in the unexpected. She lives by the values: “Believe in yourself and stay honest always”

Simple words, but perhaps a message to us all—from her.

Written by Adrika Changmai

Adrika wrote this article as a participant of the Media-Makers Fellowship's May'25 cohort.