GK Talks “IDC” and “Gangnam Pop”

GK reveals what movie inspired the “IDC” music video, what it was like to work with HANEUL, how “IDC” differs from his other songs, and more.

For those who have not heard your music before, how would you describe it to them? How would you finish the sentence “GK is ___” or “GK’s music is ___”? 

“GK is ddanddara.” “Ddanddara” is a word in Korean [that describes an] entertainer as a clown, in a bad way. The reason why I use that word to describe myself is because the words “artist” and “idol” are too much of a burden. I never thought I was perfect or talented enough to [have one of those] nicknames. 

“GK’s music is Gangnam pop.” I prefer music that [everyone] can listen to, but I couldn’t make music if no one listened or gave feedback, [so my music] targets the MZ Generation, like [the] Gangnam region of Korea [does]. Note: The term “MZ Generation” in South Korea is equivalent to referencing both millennials and Gen Z in North America. 

Who or what first inspired you to pursue a music career? 

My musical background is in band music, [and I have] played drums since I was in first grade. 

I was born in [Los Angeles], moved to Korea, [and] then moved back to the U.S. when I was in fifth grade. While I was in Korea, I followed Lee Seung Chul, a legendary singer in Korea but also a family friend, [watching] his concerts and broadcasts. While I was staying in the U.S., I listened to Lil Wayne, Kendrick Lamar, Musiq Soulchild… Which gave me a musical background of hip-hop and R&B. I think these backgrounds gave me the idea to mix a band-oriented sound with hip-hop and R&B. 

Since my musical identity was built [while] I was only playing the drums, I wanted to extend [my forms] of expression, [so I] started writing lyrics [in sixth or seventh] grade. 

What three words or phrases best describe your new single, “IDC”? 

“Gangnam pop,” “easy-listening,” [and] “hooking.” 

What was it like to work with HANEUL on “IDC”? 

At first, I was worried because her throat condition wasn’t good. However, as a vocal trainer, I immediately gave her feedback [that] she accepted right away, and [she] completed the song perfectly. 

Does “IDC” represent a new direction for your music? Can people expect that your future music will sound more like “IDC” than the songs on G.Round? 

The reason why I made the pre-debut album G.Round was because before I showed the audience my preferred musical style, I wanted to show them who I am and what I am good at. The song “Kill the System” showed how I felt skepticism [toward] the Korean entertainment industry, and the song “DONE” showed my musical background, [with a mix of a] band sound [with] drill. In the future, I would like to release more [in the] “IDC” genre, and also [more] alternative music. 

What is something people would be surprised to learn about the “IDC” music video? 

Check out [the] 2:05 [timestamp for] a special cameo! 

Was the “IDC” music video plot inspired by a real-life situation? 

Actually, the music video was an homage to the movie Challengers. The sport in the movie [is] tennis, but we changed it to running. 

What are your short-term and long-term career goals?

My short-term goal is to successfully release my upcoming debut album, maybe late this year or early next year. My long-term goal is to produce an idol group who can [make it on the] Billboard [charts and to the] Grammys. 

Lastly, is there anything else you want to say about yourself or your music? 

Please, please wait for my debut album. I’m trying to prepare it perfectly. 

Keep up with GK on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube!

Answers have been edited and condensed for clarity. Photo credit: Instagram.