My Story

안녕하세요! I am a Korean Canadian who grew up listening to K-pop during the 1990s. I created this site for fun, to spread some Korean culture and to share artists I enjoy listening to. K-pop was in its infancy when I was introduced. Before modern K-pop, the only Korean music I listened to was trot music my parents played in the house. One of their favourite artists is Na Hoon-a (나훈아).

1992 - My cousin from South Korea introduced me to Seo Taiji and Boys (서태지와 아이들). This trio envisioned a new direction for Korean music that blended elements of American hip hop, R&B, techno, and rock with hip hop choreography. They debuted on the South Korean television talent show MBC on April 11, 1992 with their song "Nan Arayo" ("I Know"). The song was poorly received by the judges and critics, but it went on to become a huge hit and is considered to have launched modern K-pop.

1997 - In high school, my buddy introduced me to a Korean hip hop duo, Jinusean. We cruised around in his Acura Integra listening to "Jinusean Bomb," "Gasoline," and "Tell me." This led me to discovering other artists including H.O.T., S.E.S., Fin.K.L, and Baby V.O.X and buying their cassette tapes.

2007 - I went to South Korea to visit my relatives. It was the first time I heard of the girl group, Girls' Generation (소녀시대), whose debut single, "Into The New World," played at shops and cafes. I liked the song so much I bought their album on CD. Taeyeon, a member of the group, is one of the best-selling solo artists in South Korea. Her music video, "INVU," is an absolute masterpiece.

2017 - I came across a girl group, TWICE. I read in a local newspaper that they were in Vancouver shooting their new music video, "Likey." The MV features sights including English Bay, Steveston Village, Stanley Park, Gastown, and White Rock Pier. I loved it. I started listening to their albums and became a fan. They are my favourite girl group to this day.

2023 - I went to my first K-pop concert and saw TWICE during their 5th World Tour "Ready To Be" in Toronto on July 2, 2023. It is one of the best concerts I've been to!

Listening to K-pop has given me an appreciation of my Korean heritage. As I look back on my journey, I'm amazed at how it has become a global phenomenon since PSY's "Gangnam Style" and Seo Taiji and Boys paving the way in bringing Korean pop music to the world.

Take care,

Arnold (상인)