Hongdae Blues

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HONGDAE BLUES

At present, there are many people who have a misconception that Korean music only consists of K-pop. On the streets of South Korea, there is bound to be at least one K-pop group advertisement or poster. How much has the Korean music culture evolved within a short span of 5 years? In South Korea, Indie bands that offer an alternative range of music are not as recognised. It is disheartening how K-pop is considered the only music in Korean culture when the music by the Korean Indie bands deserves as much appreciation.

Instead, many talented musicians find their voice at a small town in Seoul called Hongdae. It has become a second home to the young and passionate music enthusiasts who hang around and perform at live clubs. Apart from earning their income by performing live at clubs, some begin their career by busking along the streets.

Personally, as a K-pop fan for more than 5 years, I find it disheartening that majority of the fans pay attention to groups with good-looking members rather than the quality of music they produce. The Hallyu wave has invaded South Korea itself and has spread worldwide within a short time. How much have this invasion of pop culture affected Hongdae and its’ musicians’ career? How do these K-Indie bands cope and survive in this madness of K-pop?

This photography project serves to bring you closer to the bands, through the stories that they share.

Featuring bands:

ASIAN CHAIRSHOT

BLOCS

BURNING MONKEYS

THE ROOSTERS

YEOIL BAND

*This is a short preview of the book

Feature book: 90pp (8.5 x 11 inches)
Provide a clearer understanding of the Korean Indie music culture to both international and Korean music audiences. The photograph and stories are to evoke emotions and to bring a closer to understanding of the lifestyle and how under appreciated these Korean Indie bands are.

Merchandises:
Posters, postcards, stickers and promotional booklet (35pp) are for promotional uses and to provide more information about the bands.