PINNACLE'S ITAEWON UnkelChubbZ spreads South African vibes 1 venue at a time

DJ UnkelChubbZ / Courtesy of DJ UnkelChubbZ

In the vibrant and diverse neighborhood of Itaewon in Seoul, where cultures from around the world converge, there's one DJ who has been making waves with his cool flavor and unwavering passion for South African music. He’s known to his family and friends as Setshaba Aaron, but on the streets of Itaewon as UnkelChubbZ.

UnkelChubbZ has had his place in the Itaewon DJ scene solidified for quite some time now. While he has graced the decks at many places, he mentions Cakeshop as the place where he has DJed the most. He's also left his musical mark at Casa Corona, Lit Lounge, Tunnel and The Parlour Seoul, creating a loyal following of fans along the way.

In 2012, when he was still a high school student in South Africa, he was inspired by his cousin's DJ skills, so he started experimenting with music as a hobby. Little did he know that this hobby would turn into a lifelong passion and a blossoming career. He quickly discovered his talent and continued honing his skills, building an impressive repertoire of tracks that never fail to get the crowd moving.

For UnkelChubbZ, being a DJ goes beyond just playing music; it's about building a sense of belonging and community. In South Africa, where he often felt like an outsider, he found solace and connection through music.

“I have found a community where I finally felt like I belong. I grew up in South Africa, a country where 80 percent of the population is Black but I lived in neighbourhoods with predominantly white people during my high school and university years so it was difficult fitting in,” UnkelChubbZ reminisces.

Yet, in the diverse and inclusive environment of the Itaewon DJ scene, he finally felt at home. “Whenever I found myself deejaying or around other DJs, none of that mattered!” he said, speaking to how music can transcend boundaries.

DJ UnkelChubbZ / Courtesy of DJ UnkelChubbZ

One of UnkelChubbZ's favorite aspects of being a DJ is witnessing the joy on people's faces when they discover a new track or pull out their phones to search for a song he’s playing. However, that joy is curbed once a customer turns that phone around to interrupt his thought process by requesting a song. Nevertheless, as long as he’s able to maintain control of the decks, he can continue to execute his mission to introduce South African music to a wider audience.

He believes fervently in the richness of South African music and dance culture and is determined to share it with the world. "I come from a country with so many problems but I wholeheartedly believe we have the best music and dancers in the world and it’s time other people realized that," he passionately states.

UnkelChubbZ continues to be a staple in Itaewon's DJ scene, blending the rhythms of South Africa with the vibe of this cosmopolitan neighborhood. With his unwavering dedication and passion, he's making sure the world knows that South African music has a place on the global stage.

For those who want to stay updated with UnkelChubbZ's upcoming gigs and other updates, you can follow him on Instagram and Twitter (which has been rebranded as “X’’) at @UnkelChubbZ.

Pinnacle TheHustler is the owner of Itaewon hip-hop hookah bar Lit Lounge. He is a DJ, emcee and former radio host and recording artist. Visit @lit_itaewon on Instagram or planethustle.com for more information.