HBC Festival marks 10th anniversary
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Crowds gather at last year’s HBC Fall Music Festival in Haebangchon, Yongsan-gu, Seoul. / Courtesy of Lance Reegan-Diehl
By John Redmond
The 10-year anniversary of the popular expat music event, the HBC Festival will take place in Haebangchon and Gyeongnidangil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul from Oct. 16-18.
The event will feature the addition of an opening “Jam Session” at Thunderhorse tavern on Oct. 15 and a Philles “Hangover Blues Sunday” on Oct.18.
The festival, which began in 2006 as a showcase for expat musicians, features more than 100 acts.
“The HBC Fest is the expat music festival and features over 100 live acts in independent venues spread over three days, and is the largest independent artist showcase in Korea,” said organizer Lance Reegan-Diehl.
The festival began in 2006 as a showcase for independent musicians, and with that idea in mind it has continued to blossom with each new season.
Adding a boost to the local economy, the small streets where the action happens are famous as local expat hangouts that have been popularized by MBC and SBS for showcasing certain restaurants and the unique culture of the area.
The festival has always swayed with the demands of both musicians and venues, and with that the size and scope of the festival has fluctuated through the years.
“Street level acoustic performers will entertain the busy bars, while below ground a plethora of rock, alt-rock, funk, blues, R&B bands will keep the air vibrant until 1 a.m.,” said Reegan-Diehl.
The public is advised to stay inside the venues.
“This is still not a street party. Keep the music and the party inside the bars. The police are here to help people move, and keep the traffic moving. Do your part and go inside to hear the music and be part of the fest,” he said.
Additional supporting places for the festival are Jacoby’s Burgers, Casablanca Sandwiches, UnBuckle, Gogi Chip, Al Matto, and Fat Cat deli.
The festival is provided and paid for by the local businesses in order to give independent artists a place to play and to boost the local economy in the area.
“While not every business in the area is a venue for live music, there are many who openly encourage the festival. These businesses can be clearly recognized by the HBC Fest posters in their windows, and the support they give to HBC Fest,” the organizer said in a press release.
Entry to this music festival is free. Fest T-shirts are for sale at selected venues for 15,000 won to support the festival as well as fliers, maps and other festival items.
For more details, including an updated schedule and list of performers, please visit the main website www.hbcfest.com. www.facebook.com/events/1436122246717305/ or email sales@deeleebob.com.