By Cain Barriskill
Contributing writer
Step into the Hongdae area of Seoul on any given weekend and there is likely to be anywhere from five to fifteen live shows happening simultaneously.
Hongik University is surrounded by a myriad of small underground rock clubs and bands from all over South Korea flock there every weekend to display their wares.
For some of us, especially the uneducated expat, the difficult decision is not whether to go and see a live show, but which show most deserves our hard earned won.
If you’re planning to enjoy some live music this weekend let me make the decision easy for you ― go to DGBDs. This Friday, the famous punk venue has put together a fantastic line-up, and at 5000 won on the door, it’s an absolute bargain.
Kicking off the evening’s entertainment is acoustic punk troubadour Johnny Red.
At the most recent Haebangchon Festival, the London-born singer and songwriter literally stopped traffic as the crowd filled out onto the street to catch his outdoor performance. After the acoustic artist, things will get a bit louder with female fronted punk band Kickscotch.
The punk band blends elements of psychobilly and wipe-out into what they call “pure punk rock ’n’ roll.”
Next up, proudly claiming to be from “the most dangerous city in Korea,” are skinhead band Attacking Forces.
For several years Attacking Forces have been at the forefront the Cheongju punk scene and their visits to Hongdae are always eagerly anticipated by their Seoulite counterparts.
The First Round Heroes, who represent no less than four nationalities among their ranks, combine catchy melodies with growling vocals. The band has become known for their raucous stage performances and the recent addition of an extra guitar has bolstered the band’s sound.
Headlining the evening is the renowned Korean punk band RUX, undoubtedly one of the best underground acts in the country. Formed way back in 1996, RUX and their label Skunk Records have contributed endlessly to the Punk scene in Korea.
Influenced by British punk bands Sham 69, The Clash and Cock Sparrer, with big sing-a-long choruses and plenty of Oi, RUX perform with the perfect mix of English and Korean lyrics.
On the surface, South Korea may seem a fairly conservative and conformist society but delve a little deeper and one can discover something entirely different.
Openly sporting tattoos and dying their hair an array of colors, the Korean punks represent one section of this society that does not conform and isn’t afraid to be different.
Before your time in Korea is over you should experience this unique part of modern Korean culture and at only 1,000 won per band, this Friday seems the perfect time to do it.
DGBDs is located next to Castle Praha, Hongik station, exit 2. For detailed directions visit their website www.myspace.com/clubdgbd