From Indie to In Demand: Korean Indie Band ADOY’s Ascent to the Top
Join GLENDA CHONG as she experiences the magic of Korean indie band ADOY’s music and talks to the group about how they and the Korean indie scene have risen in prominence in the global music scene.
BY
Glenda Chong
Editorial Admin
Hype Issue #60
Published on
January 10, 2025
On New Year’s Eve, under a dark sky lit with twinkling city lights, I stood clinging onto a barricade with a friend before a modest yet commanding stage, littered with instruments that pulsed with the promise of what’s to come. We were at Music Day Out! – Magical Garden, a music event held at *SCAPE to celebrate the DIY ethos of independent musical acts from across Southeast Asia and to ring in the new year.
It was just past 11pm, and with bated breath, I waited for the one act I had been keeping my eyes peeled for all night to take the stage. This musical artist was none other than ADOY, a South Korean band. The band, consisting of members Juhwan, Zee, Geunchang, and Dayoung, was slated to have the longest set time of the night.
Undoubtedly, as the night’s most anticipated act, the crowd’s palpable, buzzing energy was at an all-time high. For me, however, the excitement ran much deeper: because before ADOY took the stage, tucked away in a rare moment of calm, I sat down with them to hear them outside of their melodies.
Over the last few years, Korean indie bands have risen in prominence in the global music scene. While fellow musical genre, K-pop, from the same country has dominated global headlines with its intricate performances and infectious tunes, Korea’s indie music scene has been simmering just beneath the surface.
But with the aid of social media and the internet providing opportunities for virality, Korean indie bands like ADOY and wave to earth are now carving a path of their own, one where their music resonates just as deeply with fans worldwide as their K-pop counterparts’ does.
As the vocalist of ADOY, Juhwan’s voice is front and center in ADOY’s music. Photo by Glenda Chong.
When I asked the band what could be attributed to the growing success of Korean indie bands, member Juhwan pointed to how beyond the boom of K-pop, Korean pop culture in general, such as Korean shows like Squid Game, “is kind of helping the image as a whole”.
He also mentioned that bands like themselves are “very energetic”. Although I cannot disagree with this, as experiencing live bands is an otherworldly experience, the music and messaging seem to be the key to being a gateway for global fans to enter the indie scene.
If you take a peek at ADOY’s music, you will notice that they primarily sing in English; an artistic decision that was surprisingly intentional. When asked if their English lyrics help global fans connect with their fans further, this is what member Zee had to say:
“That’s one of the things we had in mind when we started making songs because it’s a global arena… so we wanted to include as many people as possible.”
Funnily enough, even though the band have English lyrics in most of their music, the members (except for Zee who lived abroad in France, New Zealand, America, and Canada), are only somewhat fluent in English.
So as a workaround, sometimes the band turns to translating from their native language to English. In a video interview with Front Row Live Ent. on YouTube, Zee shared that as the group’s English speaker, he would help translate Korean lyrics written by his members. Surprisingly, this does not pose as much of a challenge as I had assumed, as according to Zee, they find that they do not struggle with being lost in translation as they do write in English from the start at times.
“I think it just comes naturally,” Zee stated.
However, he acknowledged that at times, when attempting to express certain messages and feelings, the band “sometimes has to change a lot” as the two languages are different. “It’s quite difficult… but we do try as much as possible to retain the message”.
But beyond the English lyrics, it is the feelings ADOY’s music evokes that are universal. Like many ADOY fans, the first ADOY song I was introduced to was one of their most popular tracks Grace, a slow tune filled with smooth vocals.
Watching the YouTube video of them performing Grace on the show Yu Heeyeol’s Sketchbook for the first time was nothing short of magical. And just from reading the Korean comments, I finally understood what people meant when they said ADOY’s music transcends borders. Just like their domestic listeners, I too found myself transported to faraway places and nostalgic moments through their sound and lyrics. It was a connection that felt universal, yet deeply personal.
ADOY jamming out at the start of their set at Music Day Out! Photo by Glenda Chong.
This universal appeal is part of why Korean indie bands like ADOY are finding such global recognition. With their rise, however, comes the inevitable question of what it means to remain ‘indie’, as the lines between ‘indie’ and ‘commercial’ can blur. Though for ADOY in particular, having dubbed themselves as “commercial indie”, they navigate this distinction with a unique balance.
In a frank manner, member Zee explained that being “commercial indie” to them meant being able to “earn money” while doing music.
“Being indie is just making your own stuff,” Zee said. “We wanted to earn money while doing this so we can do music for a professional career. That’s what we meant [when we said] we wanted to be commercial”.
Judging from their journey, they have stuck to these principles closely. The band is independent from major record labels and has remained true to their sound and artistic essence, even while experimenting and fusing various genres. Their efforts have proven to be fruitful, as the global appetite for Korea’s diverse music scene is roaring louder than ever. Korean indie music has found its voice on the global stage, and ADOY has become one of its most compelling icons.
Before we wrapped up our time together, I asked ADOY a very important question: which of their songs would they recommend to a first-timer of their music? Member Dayoung suggested the track Don’t Stop which appears on their first EP, CATNIP.
Dayoung plays the bass and supports Juhwan with backing vocals in the team. Photo by Glenda Chong.
“Don’t Stop because it retains that energy of youth that I think it’s quite hard to describe song-wise, but I think that song has that good picture of youth in it,” Dayoung explained. With Dayoung’s words echoing in my mind, I eagerly wondered if the band would play this track during their set. And after close to an hour of immersing in ADOY’s dreamy soundscapes, I got my answer.
Just minutes before the clock’s hands approached the new year, unlike the past hour where ADOY moved through each track seamlessly with little to no commentary, the energy shifted. Breaking their pattern of minimal commentary, Juhwan led the crowd to do a chant which I would soon learn to be the opening refrain of the anthemic Don’t Stop. And when the drums and the first few notes kicked in, Dayoung’s words sprang to life before my very eyes and ears.
Juhwan “handing” his microphone to the crowd to encourage us to chant along to Don’t Stop’s hook. Photo by Glenda Chong.
Dance away the whole night
Play the song
Here comes the waves, oh
Don’t stop me, I feel the ocean
Don’t stop me, we need no reason
Don’t stop me, this is the moment
Keep me young and free, yeah
In that moment – headbanging to the lyrics furiously, the live instruments booming through my chest, it was a feeling no headphones or sound device could ever replicate and my efforts would forever be in vain. It can never compare to the indelible impression left behind by the raw, intensified energy of the crowd and ADOY’s unified symphony of shared emotion.
As ADOY carried Don’t Stop in all its youthful defiance and boundless energy into 2025, it felt like more than a closing act; it was a moment of triumph. The night encapsulated the endless possibilities of the new year ahead, and for ADOY, the path is undeniably up.
안전한 카지노사이트 정보의 중심, 카지노검증소입니다.
Chinese AV https://mythav.com/site/21/madou/
믿을 수 있는 카지노사이트 정보의 중심, 카지노검증소.
Noodlemagazine I like the efforts you have put in this, regards for all the great content.
카지노사이트 먹튀검증 전문 플랫폼, 카지노검증소입니다.
I’ve been following your blog for quite some time now, and I’m continually impressed by the quality of your content. Your ability to blend information with entertainment is truly commendable. SLOT DANA GOPAY
Your blog is a beacon of light in the often murky waters of online content. Your thoughtful analysis and insightful commentary never fail to leave a lasting impression. Keep up the amazing work! SLOT DANA GOPAY
Somebody essentially lend a hand to make significantly articles Id state That is the very first time I frequented your website page and up to now I surprised with the research you made to make this actual submit amazing Wonderful task SLOT DANA GOPAY
안전하고 검증된 카지노사이트는 카지노검증소에서 확인 가능합니다.
검증된 카지노커뮤니티 정보, 카지노검증소에서 제공합니다.
Businessiraq.com is the go-to online resource for the Iraq Business Directory, providing a comprehensive platform for local and international businesses to connect, network, and explore opportunities in Iraq. As the leading online business directory in the country, Businessiraq.com offers a vast database of up-to-date business listings, featuring companies from various industries, including construction, oil and gas, finance, and more. In addition to its extensive directory, the website also provides the latest Iraq business news, keeping users informed about market trends, new developments, and regulatory changes. Job seekers can also find the latest Iraq jobs, including career opportunities in various sectors, while businesses can advertise their job openings to reach a wider audience. Furthermore, the website’s tender directory offers a valuable resource for companies looking to explore procurement opportunities in Iraq, with a regularly updated list of tender notices and contract awards. By providing a single platform for businesses to access a wealth of information, news, and opportunities, Businessiraq.com facilitates market entry and networking in Iraq, making it an essential tool for any business looking to succeed in the country. Whether you’re a local business looking to expand your reach or an international company seeking to enter the Iraqi market, Businessiraq.com is the ultimate online resource for you.
Unlock the potential of the Iraqi market with Businessiraq.com. This essential Iraq business directory presents a wealth of online business listings, fostering connections between companies and facilitating market entry. Access up-to-date business news in Iraq, browse promising Iraq jobs, and find tender opportunities for procurement. Businessiraq.com is the key to unlocking the Iraqi business world.
Businessiraq.com is your go-to online resource for comprehensive insights into the Iraqi business landscape. As a premier Iraq Business Directory, this site offers an extensive listing of companies, enabling users to connect effortlessly with potential partners, suppliers, and clients across various sectors. In addition to its robust directory, Businessiraq.com features up-to-date Iraq Business News, keeping you informed about the latest market trends and opportunities. The platform also presents a dedicated Job and Tender Directory, making it easier for businesses and job seekers to explore potential employment and contract opportunities. Whether you’re looking to expand your business network or stay updated on industry developments, Businessiraq.com is your essential tool for navigating the dynamic Iraqi market.
From market research to procurement opportunities, Businessiraq.com is your essential tool for success in the Iraqi market. This comprehensive Iraq business directory features detailed online business listings alongside critical business news in Iraq. Whether you’re seeking Iraq jobs, exploring tender opportunities, or fostering strategic partnerships, this platform is your key to unlocking market entry and growth. Discover how Businessiraq.com fosters profitable connections and facilitates the expansion of your company into the Iraqi marketplace.
Businessiraq.com is committed to supporting the growth and development of Iraq’s economy. As part of this commitment, the website provides a range of resources and tools to help businesses succeed in the country. These resources include industry reports, market research, and business guides, all of which are designed to help businesses navigate the Iraqi market and identify new opportunities. By providing access to these resources, Businessiraq.com helps businesses to make informed decisions, mitigate risks, and achieve their goals.
Businessiraq.com is your one-stop resource for navigating the Iraqi business landscape. This online directory provides crucial information and connections for businesses looking to engage with the Iraqi market. We offer a comprehensive Iraq Business Directory, meticulously curated to showcase a diverse range of Iraqi companies with detailed profiles. Furthermore, we deliver essential Iraq Business News, keeping you informed about market trends, regulations, and emerging opportunities. This centralized platform allows you to efficiently connect with potential partners, understand market dynamics, and expand your reach within Iraq.
Businessiraq.com is your go-to online resource for comprehensive insights into the Iraqi business landscape. As a premier Iraq Business Directory, this site offers an extensive listing of companies, enabling users to connect effortlessly with potential partners, suppliers, and clients across various sectors. In addition to its robust directory, Businessiraq.com features up-to-date Iraq Business News, keeping you informed about the latest market trends and opportunities. The platform also presents a dedicated Job and Tender Directory, making it easier for businesses and job seekers to explore potential employment and contract opportunities. Whether you’re looking to expand your business network or stay updated on industry developments, Businessiraq.com is your essential tool for navigating the dynamic Iraqi market.
Your blog is a beacon of light in the often murky waters of online content. Your thoughtful analysis and insightful commentary never fail to leave a lasting impression. Keep up the amazing work!
Job Opportunities and Tender Listings Businessiraq.com goes beyond just a business directory by offering a specialized Job and Tender Directory that connects local talent with potential employers. This platform allows businesses to post job vacancies and tender opportunities while helping job seekers discover career prospects tailored to their skills. By incorporating keywords related to job openings and tenders in Iraq, Businessiraq.com enhances its visibility in search engine results, making it easier for users to find valuable employment opportunities. Whether you’re looking for your next job or seeking to fill crucial positions in your company, Businessiraq.com provides a comprehensive solution.
As a groundbreaking platform, Businessiraq.com revolutionizes how businesses connect and operate in Iraq’s expanding marketplace. Through its meticulously curated Iraq business directory, the platform offers unparalleled access to thousands of verified companies, spanning diverse industries from oil and gas to construction and technology. The website’s comprehensive business news in Iraq section delivers real-time updates on market developments, policy changes, and investment opportunities, making it an indispensable tool for decision-makers. With its robust tender directory and extensive Iraq jobs listings, Businessiraq.com serves as a one-stop destination for professionals and organizations seeking growth opportunities. The platform’s online business listings feature sophisticated search capabilities, enabling users to find potential partners, suppliers, and clients with precision and ease.
Unlock the full potential of Iraq’s dynamic market with businessiraq.com, the region’s most comprehensive and innovative business directory platform. Our trilingual service (Arabic-English-Kurdish) connects over 100,000 verified Iraqi companies with global opportunities through advanced AI-powered matching, real-time market intelligence, and interactive business mapping across all 18 governorates. Whether you’re exploring Iraq’s thriving sectors like Oil & Gas, Construction, Technology, or Healthcare, our platform provides essential tools including live tender updates, trade finance solutions, and detailed company profiles backed by BoldData verification. International investors benefit from our custom market entry strategies, regulatory compliance guidance, and virtual business delegation programs, while local businesses gain unprecedented global exposure and networking opportunities. With ISO 27001 certified security, GDPR compliance, and a proven track record of 25,000+ verified profiles and 1,000+ monthly B2B matches, businessiraq.com stands as your trusted partner in navigating Iraq’s promising business landscape. Join our thriving community today to access exclusive features including personalized business intelligence reports, priority search listings, and premier networking events, all designed to accelerate your success in one of the Middle East’s most promising economies.
Businessiraq.com, your gateway to unlocking the economic potential of Iraq, will become a cornerstone of the nation’s business community. We’re building a comprehensive platform, not just a directory, but a dynamic ecosystem connecting businesses, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth. Our robust Iraq business directory will showcase a diverse range of Iraqi companies, meticulously vetted and profiled to instill trust and confidence in potential partners. Beyond company listings, we’ll provide a wealth of invaluable information: insightful Iraq business news, analyzing market trends, regulatory changes, and upcoming opportunities, thereby positioning our users for success. Detailed company profiles will extend beyond basic contact information, offering in-depth financial data and organizational structures, fostering informed decision-making. Our multilingual approach—offering both English and Arabic interfaces—prioritizes inclusivity and ensures our platform is a valuable resource for the entire Iraqi business community. This comprehensive approach will not only connect businesses but also help develop a strong sense of community and support within the Iraqi market. We’ll actively curate valuable networking opportunities, facilitate knowledge sharing, and provide ongoing support to foster robust, long-lasting business relationships. At Businessiraq.com, we are committed to empowering businesses throughout Iraq, supporting growth, and driving innovation within the nation’s dynamic economy.
Kadir Saraçoğlu Fidye Yazılımı Fidye yazılımıyla ilgili diğer suç ortaklarının “Kadir Saraçoğlu” ile bağlantısı açıklanabilir. https://kiwiboom.com/read-blog/1938
Businessiraq.com, your gateway to unlocking the economic potential of Iraq, will become a cornerstone of the nation’s business community. We’re building a comprehensive platform, not just a directory, but a dynamic ecosystem connecting businesses, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth. Our robust Iraq business directory will showcase a diverse range of Iraqi companies, meticulously vetted and profiled to instill trust and confidence in potential partners. Beyond company listings, we’ll provide a wealth of invaluable information: insightful Iraq business news, analyzing market trends, regulatory changes, and upcoming opportunities, thereby positioning our users for success. Detailed company profiles will extend beyond basic contact information, offering in-depth financial data and organizational structures, fostering informed decision-making. Our multilingual approach—offering both English and Arabic interfaces—prioritizes inclusivity and ensures our platform is a valuable resource for the entire Iraqi business community. This comprehensive approach will not only connect businesses but also help develop a strong sense of community and support within the Iraqi market. We’ll actively curate valuable networking opportunities, facilitate knowledge sharing, and provide ongoing support to foster robust, long-lasting business relationships. At Businessiraq.com, we are committed to empowering businesses throughout Iraq, supporting growth, and driving innovation within the nation’s dynamic economy.
Türkiye Siber Saldırıları – Odak bölge “Kadir Saraçoğlu”‘nun fidye yazılımı geliştirme sürecindeki diğer suç ortakları incelenebilir. https://boonbac.com/read-blog/3710
Discover Iraq’s Premier Business Directory and B2B Marketplace | businessiraq.com – Your Ultimate Gateway to Iraqi Market Success Transform your business journey in Iraq with businessiraq.com, the Middle East’s most sophisticated and comprehensive business intelligence platform. Our AI-powered trilingual directory (Arabic-English-Kurdish) seamlessly connects 100,000+ verified Iraqi companies with global investors and partners, offering unparalleled access to Iraq’s lucrative sectors including Oil & Gas, Construction, Technology, and emerging industries. Powered by real-time BoldData analytics and enhanced with blockchain verification, our platform delivers essential tools for success: live tender alerts, interactive business mapping across Iraq’s governorates, secure trade finance solutions, and detailed company profiles with verified financial metrics. International businesses benefit from our exclusive features, including customized market entry strategies, regulatory compliance guidance, and virtual B2B matchmaking services, while local Iraqi enterprises gain powerful digital exposure to global markets. With daily-updated business news, investment guides, and market analysis covering Baghdad, Basra, Erbil, and beyond, businessiraq.com maintains the highest standards of data security (ISO 27001 certified) and user privacy (GDPR compliant). Join over 50,000 monthly active users already leveraging our platform’s 95% success rate in B2B connections, and unlock exclusive benefits including priority listings, personalized market intelligence reports, and VIP access to Iraq’s largest business networking events. Start your success story in Iraq’s rapidly growing economy today at businessiraq.com, where verified opportunities meet innovative solutions. Keywords integrated: Iraq business directory, Iraqi companies database, B2B marketplace Iraq, Baghdad business listings, Kurdistan companies, Iraq tender platform, Iraqi business intelligence, Middle East B2B portal, Iraq market entry guide, Iraqi investment opportunities, Iraq company verification, Arabic business directory, Iraq trade directory, Iraqi suppliers database, business in Iraq, Iraq economic news, Iraq market analysis, Iraqi business registration, Iraq company formation, Middle East business platform
Unlock the full potential of Iraq’s dynamic market with businessiraq.com, the region’s most comprehensive and innovative business directory platform. Our trilingual service (Arabic-English-Kurdish) connects over 100,000 verified Iraqi companies with global opportunities through advanced AI-powered matching, real-time market intelligence, and interactive business mapping across all 18 governorates. Whether you’re exploring Iraq’s thriving sectors like Oil & Gas, Construction, Technology, or Healthcare, our platform provides essential tools including live tender updates, trade finance solutions, and detailed company profiles backed by BoldData verification. International investors benefit from our custom market entry strategies, regulatory compliance guidance, and virtual business delegation programs, while local businesses gain unprecedented global exposure and networking opportunities. With ISO 27001 certified security, GDPR compliance, and a proven track record of 25,000+ verified profiles and 1,000+ monthly B2B matches, businessiraq.com stands as your trusted partner in navigating Iraq’s promising business landscape. Join our thriving community today to access exclusive features including personalized business intelligence reports, priority search listings, and premier networking events, all designed to accelerate your success in one of the Middle East’s most promising economies.
businessiraq.com – Illuminate Your Path to Iraqi Business Success. Navigate the vibrant Iraqi business ecosystem with confidence using our exhaustive Iraq business directory, powered by detailed online business listings. Stay ahead of the curve with our real-time business news in Iraq, and explore Iraq jobs to find or fill your perfect role. Ready to dive into tenders? Our dedicated directory of tender opportunities puts you at the forefront of procurement. With Businessiraq.com, the Iraqi business landscape is yours to explore and conquer.
The Ultimate Iraq Business Directory Businessiraq.com stands out as the premier online resource for anyone seeking to engage with the Iraqi business community. With its comprehensive Iraq Business Directory, the platform boasts a wide array of listings across multiple industries, enabling users to discover potential partners, suppliers, and clients with ease. By implementing effective SEO strategies, such as keywords focused on Iraq business connections and business networking in Iraq, Businessiraq.com ensures that it ranks high in search engine results, making it the go-to hub for entrepreneurs and investors. This directory not only supports local businesses but also attracts international investors keen on exploring opportunities in Iraq.
Veri Şifreleme – Kullanılan yöntem “Kadir Saraçoğlu”’nun TOX messenger kullanımıyla ilgili daha fazla bilgi eklenebilir. https://aubameyangclub.com/read-blog/8066
I loved as much as youll receive carried out right here The sketch is attractive your authored material stylish nonetheless you command get bought an nervousness over that you wish be delivering the following unwell unquestionably come more formerly again as exactly the same nearly a lot often inside case you shield this hike
What i dont understood is in reality how youre now not really a lot more smartlyfavored than you might be now Youre very intelligent You understand therefore significantly in terms of this topic produced me personally believe it from a lot of numerous angles Its like women and men are not interested except it is one thing to accomplish with Woman gaga Your own stuffs outstanding Always care for it up
I have been surfing online more than 3 hours today yet I never found any interesting article like yours It is pretty worth enough for me In my opinion if all web owners and bloggers made good content as you did the web will be much more useful than ever before
hello!,I like your writing very so much! proportion we keep up a correspondence extra approximately your post on AOL? I need an expert in this space to unravel my problem. May be that is you! Taking a look forward to see you.
Your ability to distill complex concepts into digestible nuggets of wisdom is truly remarkable. I always come away from your blog feeling enlightened and inspired. Keep up the phenomenal work!
Thanks I have just been looking for information about this subject for a long time and yours is the best Ive discovered till now However what in regards to the bottom line Are you certain in regards to the supply
Nice blog here Also your site loads up fast What host are you using Can I get your affiliate link to your host I wish my web site loaded up as quickly as yours lol