PSY's Summer Swag show kicks off with a bang
Singer PSY performs during the Summer Swag 2023 show at Jamsil Olympic Main Stadium in southern Seoul, Friday. Courtesy of P NATION
Some 30,000 fans flock to PSY's Friday show
By Dong Sun-hwa
Most global audiences associate PSY with his 2012 viral hit, “Gangnam Style.” But for his Korean followers, the 45-year-old is not just Gangnam Style's singer, but a born performer with tireless energy who cools them off with his Summer Swag show every summer.
Launched in 2011, the Summer Swag concert is one of the most popular and crowded summer events in Korea, which draws some 30,000 people per day. It is a water-drench party where the audience can enjoy PSY's performances to the fullest without being bothered by the sweltering heat. Clad in blue outfits and accessories, people of all ages enthusiastically sing and dance along with the veteran singer, who has dropped a string of hits like “Entertainer” (2006) and “That That” (2022) since his debut in 1999.
Some 30,000 people pack Jamsil Olympic Main Stadium in southern Seoul, Friday, to attend PSY's Summer Swag 2023 show. Courtesy of P NATION
Friday's extravaganza ― the first of the three shows to be held at the Jamsil Olympic Main Stadium, southern Seoul, until July 2 ― was no exception. It was not only a blast for everyone, but a testament to PSY's unwavering popularity fueled by his vibrant energy and seasoned performing skills. It was also the first Summer Swag show since COVID-19 mask mandates were lifted.
Singer PSY performs his 2012 hit “Gangnam Style” during the Summer Swag 2023 show at Jamsil Olympic Main Stadium in southern Seoul, Friday. Courtesy of P NATION
“It is so thrilling to see you screaming without wearing masks,” PSY said during his concert. “The best thing about my show is that it brings together people of all ages ranging from teenagers to the elderly. I hope today can become the happiest day of the year for all of you.”
PSY commanded the stage with the fan favorites like “Gangnam Style” (2012), “Gentleman” (2013) and “I Luv It” (2017). But this was not all. To pump up the festive mood, he invited singer Jessi to perform her songs including “Nunu Nana” (2020). She was once represented by P NATION, an entertainment company established by PSY in 2019.
Another guest was Hwasa ― a member of K-pop girl group MAMAMOO ― who mesmerized the audience with her song, “Twit” (2019), among others. Hwasa and PSY took people by surprise by signing an exclusive contract on stage, showing that Hwasa has officially become a singer of P NATION.
Singers PSY and Hwasa during the Summer Swag 2023 show at Jamsil Olympic Main Stadium in southern Seoul, Friday / Courtesy of P NATION
At the end of the party, PSY expressed his gratitude to everyone on the spot.
“There are so many better singers, rappers and dancers in Korea,” he said. “So I am thankful that you still love me. I am happy that my concert has gifted happiness to you.”
PSY is scheduled to continue his shows in the cities like Wonju, Yeosu, Suwon, Busan and Incheon until Aug. 27.