korean indie… hallyu is official

It’s been a while since my last post. Life has been busy. Whatever.

As I get back on track to updating my personal diary of things that interest me, I tell myself that some things really are intriguing. Hallyu, also known as the Korean Wave, is sweeping across Asia. South Korean pop-culture is dominating Asian music, television and movies. Originally a term coined by Chinese journalists, Hallyu is creating a movement within South Korea that is absolutely disgusting. Don’t get me wrong. I love me some Korean video girls just like the rest of ‘em. I mean, honestly, who can deny 9 girls dancing to the formula that is mainstream pop music…SNSD anyone?

SNSD - Gee

In all seriousness, to every action there is a reaction. And in South Korea, the reaction to plastic, template-driven pop groups is Korean Indie (aka K-Indie). Although considered part of Hallyu, K-Indie is a movement that started back in the 80’s. Recently the indie bands of South Korea have been gaining so much momentum that they are reaching heights Korean mainstream bands only hope to achieve…”western recognition.” Apollo 18 is one of those bands. They recently were invited to perform at SXSW and have been steamrolling the indie scene.

Along with other up-and-coming bands as well as long-time established artists from the K-Indie scene, I am hoping some more gems break through.

Apollo 18 - High Stepper