K-Pop fever has undoubtedly swept the entire globe and left everyone wanting more. Korean hip-pop has also recently been gaining popularity and much-deserved recognition in recent years. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for the South Korean rock music scene.
But if you’re a true music connoisseur, you’re bound to find myriad undiscovered gems of incredible rock music by Korean bands. While it’s unlikely that Korean rock will ever gain the same clout K-Pop has, the bands listed here have created tunes that will still sweep you off in unexpected ways. Read on to learn more.
1. Bursters
Bursters are the band to listen to if you enjoy upbeat metalcore, full of screaming guitars and complemented by vocals that soar to the heavens. The Seoul group gained notoriety through South Korea’s version of X Factor, Superstar K, in 2014 and has dropped two incredible albums so far. As they complete their seventh year, they describe their contagious metalcore signature style through songs in both Korean and English, garnering global appeal.
2. SURL
SURL, the Shinhan Card Rookie Award winner from 2018, has since made a name for themselves in the Korean rock scene. With their catchy tunes, excellent technical skills, and exceptional talent, SURL is set to wow audiences of every persuasion for a long time. How, after all, can one not be enthralled by the perfect blending of the singer’s gentle vocals with the exquisite melodious guitar riffs? Additionally, SURL has been producing creative music videos as you’ve never seen before.
3. Dreamcatcher
Since their debut, Dreamcatcher have threaded the line between two opposing genres, brilliantly blending the energetic choreography of K-pop with the piercing instrumentals of K-rock. With origins in Seoul, this trio creates immensely catchy songs and music videos tied together by intricate tales that keep listeners wanting more. Their albums, released in both Korean and Japanese, occasionally include English lyrics for a more international appeal.
4. Jaurim
With more than 20 years of expertise under their belts and a strong affinity for The Cranberries and Alanis Morissette’s musical stylings, Jaurim is an alternative rock band with their names in the game. Though they were criticised for lacking originality when they first established themselves in the Korean rock scene, they have since acquired a dimension to their music that, despite sounding familiar, is nonetheless distinctively Jaurim.
5. DAY6
Since dropping onto the scene in 2015, DAY6 has been churning out emo-pop-inspired songs with English lyrics for listeners abroad. By actively participating in the instrumental recording and production of their own music, DAY6 disrupt the K-rock mold by incorporating raging guitars into alluring melodies, sweet hooks, and irresistible singalongs. Through DAY6, passion and the essence of rock ‘n’ roll are alive and well.
Conclusion
So, while South Korean rock may only be just burgeoning and isn’t as popular as its pop and hip-hop counterparts, it doesn’t make it any less riveting and well-produced. In fact, scouring the scene for more rock band recommendations will only bring you to great new music you’ve never heard.
Why not join a Korean language course for a deeper understanding of these lyrical masterpieces? Sejong remains one of Singapore’s most reliable and effective Korean language centres. Contact us today to learn more!