CHENNAI: Groovy music, peppy moves and everything that’s part of ‘Hallyu’ (The Korean wave) will take over the city today, as part of the Changwon K-pop World festival 2018. Shin Heejae, researcher and manager, Consulate General of the Republic of Korea says, “K-pop, K-drama and anything culturally related to Korea has a huge traction in Chennai. People here love the culture and there are many who even want to learn the language. Compared to other Indian cities, the fan base is bigger and stronger in Chennai.”
The concert organised by the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Chennai, Korea Foundation and the Korean Chamber of Commerce and Industry (South India) will host veteran singer Jung Jaewooksuch, Chloris, a new girl-troupe, and Royal KD, a R&B hip-hop crew. Jung Jae Wook, who debuted with the song A foolish love says, “Nothing can beat the feeling of the audience singing an entire song along with you. I have had incredible experiences.” Royal KD, which gave the hit number Golden Time, say they are ‘thrilled’ to be in Chennai.
“We will be playing fusion music — American pop and Korean pop, and Korean Hiphop for our fans here. Most international fans think K-Pop is just music, we want to show the different layers that the culture has to offer,” share the band that’s greatly inspired African- American music. They promise to take the audience on a journey which will excite them. “We, as a crew are relaxed and happy. We don’t really rehearse but play rock, paper, scissor behind the stage We are instinctive and our jams happen live, on stage,” says Popsick, a band member.
Chloris, the one-year-old girl band, gained popularity after their popdance number Friday Night went viral. “Every song has lyrics, and lyrics have stories. We try to express it to reach our fans,” shares Dina, a member. The group keep in touch with their fans from across the globe through Instagram and YouTube. The unique style and visual splendor of K-Pop has made it popular in the city. But what makes a K-Pop performer? The artistes say “Passion,” in unison.
“Many say that talent is all it takes to achieve, but it is not easy to become a K-pop performer. There is pressure and you have to endure and overcome it. But people who have the real passion and dream of making it big will never give up and practice hard every day, without an excuse,” add Chloris, the band. (The concert will be held at 5 pm, The Music Academy)
K-Pop contest
About 37-odd K-pop enthusiasts will take part in the Changwon K-Pop World Festival India Contest (Chennai Edition), today at 2 pm at The Music Academy. The national finale will be held in New Delhi on July 9, and the winner will get a chance to participate in the international finale in Korea.