Pop Idol Seo Tai-ji Marks 15 Years Since Debut

[Shin Hye]

By Sa Eun-young
Staff Reporter


Musician Seo Tai-ji, 34, a cultural icon for introducing new styles onto Korea's music scene in the 1990s, celebrates the 15th year since his debut with an anniversary album. The album titled ``[&] Seo Tai-ji 15th Anniversary," is a jam-packed treat for fans who want to take a walk down memory-lane. It will be released on Nov.29.

According to Yedang Entertainment, the album includes all songs starting from his debut with Seo Tai-ji and Boys up to his seventh album, on top of live tracks and previously unreleased remixed versions of popular songs. Along with this come two DVDs, which will feature all of Seo's group and solo music videos as well as scenes from the best concert performances over the last 15 years. To add even more, it will include the first ever release of video footage of Seo Tai-ji and Boys on their trip to Denver. The limited edition of the album will be the priciest among anniversary albums so far.

To the further delight of fans, following the anniversary album, Seo may possibly set out on a nationwide tour after releasing his eighth album early next year, the entertainment label added.

Seo debuted in 1992 as the leader of the phenomenally popular group, Seo Tai-ji and Boys, with members Lee Ju-no and Yang Hyun-suk, which introduced dance music culture to Korea with songs like, ``Nan Arayo'' (I Know) and ``Hayeoga." Their music continued to seek different styles by moving on to heavy metal, rock and gangster rap with songs such as ``Classroom Idea'' and ``Come Back Home.'' After enjoying their place at the top, the three members parted ways in 1996.

Following a two-year hiatus, Seo returned to the Korean music scene with his fifth album in 1998, and since has released albums on and off, while still boasting a massive fan base.

In addition to the album, a memorial hall opened to commemorate the singer's 15th anniversary at the Coex Mall in southern Seoul. The memorial hall is an overall showcase of Seo's music career ― his personal belongings, news articles and audio recordings such as a personal voice message for fans and a 14-year-old Seo practicing a song. The exhibition runs through Sunday.

eysa@koreatimes.co.kr