A South Korean indie musician, returning from an extensive tour of China, is pivoting to a new role: bridging the gap between Korean and Chinese independent music scenes. The artist, who wishes to remain anonymous, completed a 15-city tour of China following the cancellation of a planned 2021 Japanese tour due to COVID-19 restrictions.
The tour, although professionally successful, was defined by the rigorous health protocols imposed by Chinese authorities. The musician underwent nucleic acid testing – typically four times – each time crossing city lines, a routine repeated at least 60 times across the 15 cities visited. Presenting a real-time health code status became a daily necessity, required for both entering stores and leaving cities. Remarkably, despite the constant exposure and testing, the musician remained COVID-free, a fact they jokingly attributed to possessing “super genes.”
Beyond the logistical challenges, the tour offered a unique perspective on China, differing from previous experiences as an exchange student. The musician found opportunities to connect with a broader range of people – fellow musicians, audience members, and industry professionals – through live house venues, train journeys, and post-show conversations. These interactions revealed a growing interest in Korean indie music among Chinese fans.
During the tour, the musician was repeatedly asked about Korean bands like ADOY, We Are The Night, Jannabi, and Land of Pisses. Chinese musicians shared their playlists featuring Korean artists, and Korean indie music occasionally appeared in venues. This prompted the musician to recognize a potential opportunity. “They will project manage the release of the book, being the go-to person to have discussions with,” according to Penguin Books UK, describing the role of a senior editor, a function the musician felt they could replicate in the music industry.
The musician observed a disparity in access to performance opportunities. Korean artists performing in Shanghai often played only to Korean audiences, a situation they found frustrating. Chinese artists, while touring internationally in the US and Europe, lacked the connections to secure performances in Korea. This realization led to a decision to shift focus from performing to facilitating opportunities for others.
Drawing on seven years of experience in manufacturing and trade – a background involving the entire product lifecycle from conception to market – the musician intends to apply those skills to the music industry. The goal is not simply to create solid music, but to ensure it reaches the intended audience. The musician has decided to return to Korea to pursue this endeavor, aiming to build a network that connects Korean and Chinese independent music scenes.
The musician’s return to Korea and plans for future projects remain undisclosed, but the intention to foster cross-cultural musical exchange is confirmed.
