Continuing the Korean craze

The impact of Koran Wave is undeniable -- it has taken over the world. From entertainment, travel and food to fashion and even medical treatment, aspects of K-culture have seeped into and taken root in our lifestyle almost unknowingly through popular romantic series and catchy music.

The fanaticism and influence were reflected at KCON 2019, the world's largest convention on Korean culture celebrated around the globe, with over 1 million people in attendance since its debut in 2012. In Thailand, the convention was held recently at Impact Exhibition Centre, Hall 9 and 10. From last year's success, the venue doubled in size to cater to more fans and accommodate more activities such as talks, arts and crafts, and beauty.

The convention served as a condensed version of Korean culture. A taste of everything, so to speak. The venue was packed both days, with screaming fangirls clamouring the stage to see shows by their favourite artists. There were also stalls for fan clubs of each artist to gather. At night, many headed to the packed Impact Arena for concerts by GOT7, X1, Itzy, Kim Jae Hwan, Iz*One, Ateez, Chung Ha and more.

The event was devoted more to K-pop with not much on the K-drama and films that have been popular in Thailand since the early 2000s -- the days of classics like Dae Jang Geum, Autumn In My Heart, Winter Sonata and My Sassy Girl that sparked the Korean Wave in Thailand. Perhaps these are already so popular they need no further promotion. Still, it's just one step away from completing the whole picture.

Aside from entertainment, attendees were treated to mouthwatering Korean cuisine. Food sold at the stalls was quite pricey, with a plate of noodles starting from 120 baht. It was better to head to the product booths that offered free tasting in exchange for social media likes and shares, and other more reasonable choices. Some popular items included instant tteokbokki, or stir-fried rice cakes, that we can just pour hot water on or stick in the microwave for a few minutes -- an alternative to the usual noodles.

Thai singer Natty. Konuk RYU

In other areas, there were booths introducing travel destinations and medical institutions for those pursuing aesthetic perfection. But the procedures have gone beyond the norms like facial plastic surgery, breast implants and liposuction. There is even an institution offering to make you taller through limb lengthening and reconstruction. The Korean Wave is reaching new heights, literally.

MUSIC TO FANS’ EARS

In terms of concerts, unlike last year, KCON 2019 featured more rookies than big names. Here are some of the highlights.

The show kicked off with special dances by Golden Child, Nature and The Boyz who gave it their all for the audience. It became a small gathering of Thai singers in the K-pop industry when Thai heartthrob Nichkhun Horvejkul of 2PM and BamBam from GOT7 hosted a talk segment together. Then, another Thai singer Natty who was a participant in a TV reality singing contest Idol School appeared to cover popular dance track Gashina originated by the sexy diva Sunmi. Natty wasn't as bold as Sunmi, but the vibrant personality, decent singing and smooth movements made her pleasant to watch.

Boy Story and OneUs stood out from other rookies due to their entertaining acts. The sextet Boy Story was the youngest group at the show (aged from 12-15). Despite their young age, their performances were powerful and their sharp rapping on Enough was impressive.

Fans battle on a dance game. Photo: Watcharawit Phudork

The six-member boy band OneUs dazzled us with Lit, which contained sounds of Korean traditional instruments. Thus, its choreography was a mix between traditional and modern dances. In Twilight, their harmony singing was mesmerising. The song is a metaphor which compares a girl to sunlight. The intense beat and their dramatic facial expressions and movements made the show like a flawless musical play. Unfortunately, their short stay left us wanting more.

Without any complicated choreography like other boy and girl groups, Kim Jae Hwan's performances were back to basics. It was only him and a microphone onstage. The singer songwriter charmed the crowd with his melodious singing for an emotional ballad, Begin Again, and a fun rendition of Blow Me.

The 11 finalists of the popular TV reality music contest show Produce X 101 were proven versatile and confident onstage despite their debut a month ago. Their opening slow song I'm Here For You was heartwarming and beautiful. Concertgoers got hyped on their dance renditions Flash, Move, Got It and the finale Ma. Their fans brought wild energy to the hall with their nonstop screaming and loud singing. With overwhelming responses from fans, we predict that the 11 member group X1 will be the next big thing in K-pop business.

The septet GOT7 has been one of K-pop's top groups among Thai fans since their 2014 debut. At the concert, we could see green light sticks dominating the hall. The fans greeted them with deafening cheers while they belted out the first dance song, Eclipse. The seven members offered the best showmanship on the night. Their slow song Miracle was sweet and tuneful. And on a dance track Just Right, the guys started at different corners of the stage before approaching the fans all over the hall during the performance. Their laid-back and playful personalities made the show seem like we were hanging out with friends. The show ended with their chart-topping track Hard Carry and was fittingly fantastic fun.