10 Korean indie acts you should see in 2024

With everything getting back to normal following three years of you know what, the live music scene in Korea has been exploding. With so many different musicians playing so many different shows, it can be difficult to know what to choose, especially if you're not well-versed in the local music scene. But worry not — we're here to help. Here are 10 bands you should see live in 2024.

It's worth pointing out that there's always been a rich well of acts worth seeing in Korea, many of which are still very much active. So, for this article, we will be focusing on acts that have really taken things to the next level over the last year or two.

Soumbalgwang

Busan-based Soumbalgwang are often described as "the best live band in the country," and it's easy to see why. There's something so captivating about their brand of noise-driven post-hardcore that begs to be seen performed in person. Lead singer Kang Dong-su puts it all out there on the stage and does so with such fierce energy. Follow @soumbalgwang_official on Instagram.

Soumbalgwang / Courtesy of Soumbalgwang

Beacon

Beacon is great live, in part, for the same reasons Soumbalgwang are. The ferocious, bare emotion from these bands that makes them so interesting to listen to is even more potent live. Beacon's music is so raw, painful and, in a way, so fun that seeing them live is a must. Follow @beacon_band on Instagram.

Beacon performs at Suwon Alleyway, June 19, 2021. Korea Times photo by Jon Dunbar

jisokuryClub

Don't worry; this list won't be all "pain and raw emotion." If you're looking for a band that is just chill and fun, look no further than jisokuryClub. This band produces an upbeat style of bedroom pop about everyday life that has seen them become one of the most celebrated bands on the scene. They have even won a series of awards for their live performances. What makes jisokuryClub so fun live is that always seem to be having the most fun out of everyone in the building. Follow @jisokuryclub on Instagram.

Wah Wah Wah

Wah Wah Wah is the new band from Kim Su-hyun, the guy who brought us DTSQ. His new project explores the same psychedelic art rock sounds that he has become known for. Live, Wah Wah Wah is an absolute trip. It's a mix of psyche grooves, kaleidoscopic lights and sheer energy. Visit linktr.ee/wahwahwahband.

Cadejo

Cadejo is a trio of technically accomplished musicians who create a genre-smashing mix of funk, soul, blues and rock. Live, though, they're an entirely different animal. Cadejo's members are top-notch improvisationalists, and they elevate the idea of what a jam band can do with refreshing rhythms and smooth, funk style. Follow cadejo___ on Instagram.

Cadejo / Courtesy of Cadejo

Fog

Being the resident DJ at Pet Sounds Music Pub, I've seen a lot of local bands perform. The best band I have seen there, though, is Fog. Fog is a shoegaze band that also includes elements of post-rock and dream pop. What makes Fog so special live is actually tricky to pin down. All I can say is that you should see them at any chance you get. Visit phoque0twisted.bandcamp.com to listen.

Fog / Courtesy of Fog

Fat Hamster and KANG New

2023 was a great year for the electronic music duo Fat Hamster and KANG New. Despite having worked together for ages, the duo became inseparable this year with a series of releases and performances that got many people excited. KANG New's eccentric charisma works so well with Fat Hamster's knob-twirling presence that we hope the two continue this fruitful collaboration. Visit linktr.ee/fathamster for more information.

Fat Hamster and KANG New perform at Club SHARP in western Seoul's Mangwon-dong, June 10, 2023. Korea Times photo by Jon Dunbar

GoryMurgy

A relatively quiet 2023 ended with a bang for Seoul's indie rock 'n' roll darlings, as GoryMurgy returned in December with two new songs that highlight why they're such a blast live. Their unique style of anthemic garage indie is elevated by their reverb-heavy art rock sound. They have amazing energy live, and it's always interesting to see what weird way Kimin will play guitar. Follow @gorymurgy on Instagram.

GoryMurgy performs at Skunk Sindang in eastern Seoul, June 3, 2023. Korea Times photo by Jon Dunbar

Jina0king

Jina0king might be best-known for her time as the guitarist for politically charged punk band Billy Carter. She is, however, an incredible solo artist in her own right. There are two different versions of Jina0king you're likely to see live. The first is a straight acoustic performance of her emotionally driven songs. The other is her sound art project, The Tiny Isle of Nobody. While both are great, the latter is worth highlighting. It's jaw-dropping, creative and surprisingly heartbreaking. Follow @jina0king on Instagram.

Jina0king performs at Southside Parlor's rooftop in central Seoul's Itaewon, during Block Party on Oct. 8, 2023. Korea Times photo by Jon Dunbar

Yangbans

2023 was the year Yangbans became a live music tour de force. The band has always been a firm fixture on any respectable lineup, but they really upped their game this year. Yangbans released two new EPs in 2023 that continue to explore a broader musical palette that includes rock, soul, disco and pop. When they played Block Party this year, people were lining up out the door to watch them, and it's easy to see why. Visit litt.ly/yangbansmusic for more information.

The Yangbans / Courtesy of Yangbans

Jamie Finn is chief editor of Platform Magazine.