LKL doesn’t generally post articles about the plethora of all-night K-pop parties that seem to be a regular feature of the London calendar nowadays – and increasingly in other cities too. Why? Well, it’s partly because there are so many of them (we have limited writing hours in the evening and limited storage space at our webhost); partly because finding out about them is totally random (coming across them on Facebook is a matter of complete luck) and we don’t want to favour one organiser over another; and also because we find it hard to distinguish between them all – for example, who the organisers are, what the target markets are, whether the event is blatantly commercial or alternatively participant-led.
We’re making an exception in respect of a party that’s coming up next week (Thursday 18 April, timed to coincide with the start of the long Easter weekend), because it claims to be a collaboration of no fewer than 15 London university K-pop, hallyu or Asian societies. That’s quite some feat. The party is happening at the Scala, a venue that has hosted the likes of Yi Sung-yol, Jang Ki-ha and Uhuhboo Project and will be hosting Busan’s Say Sue Me on 2 May. The organiser is Tiffany Kwok of K-Club, a masters student who also works as an event manager.
LKL had a brief email conversation with Tiffany to find out more:
LKL: Why do you think K-pop is getting so popular among students in London?
TK: The Korean Pop community is one that is unique, as their fans actively engage with bands, for example, organising light sticks co-ordination during concerts to surprise their idols. Also, K-pop is extremely popular with youth culture as they encourage them to be unique and their message of loving yourself, resonates strongly with the youth demographic as they are growing into adults and exploring their identity.
Is there a particular style for which K-pop idols are known?
K-pop is known for its gender fluidity, as male idols are often fashion-conscious, fair skinned and have willowy, slender bodies. However, this does not takeaway from their masculinity, in fact, fans love them for being unique and for expressing themselves the way they want to. In a way, rebelling against society’s norms and standards.
What is special about the event you are organising?
Our event encourages the audiences to interact with us. We take music recommendations, work with K-pop dance groups on our night, post relatable memes on our social media channels and cater to K-pop lovers all over the world, no matter their skin colour, gender, religion or beliefs.
Who are you hoping to attract to this event?
There is no typical fan at our event, they range from k-pop hardcore fans, people who love dancing K-pop choreography, people who are just interested in Asian culture in general, or Asian students who want to meet other Asian students in a foreign country. We work with Korean, and K-pop student societies in Universities all around London to organise this K-pop Night, however anyone over 18 is welcomed!
What music will you be playing?
We’ll be playing a wide range of K-pop, R&B, Hip-Hop and EDM, and we’ll be taking requests!
Do you have a final messages for the audience?
Our event will be an occasion where everyone comes together to share their love for this genre, no matter their background or where they come from.
The Easter K-pop party is at Scala, 275 Pentonville Rd, London N1 9NL on Thursday night, 18 April, opening at 11pm and lasting until 4am on Friday morning. More information and tickets in the links below.
Links:
- K-Club on Facebook | Instagram
- Event page on Facebook