Lim Young-woong is making waves in the music industry with his trot songs, rivaling the popularity of BTS in South Korea. His music blends traditional Korean elements with Western jazz and swing, appealing to a wide audience in the country. With billions of streams and sold-out stadium tours, Lim has become a nationwide sensation.
Despite being initially mocked as music for older generations, trot has seen a resurgence in popularity, thanks to artists like Lim who bring a fresh perspective to the genre. Winning the reality show “Mr Trot” in 2020 propelled him to stardom, leading to record-breaking streaming numbers and a massive fan following.
Lim’s success has surpassed that of BTS in South Korea, with his songs garnering 10 billion streams on Melon and his stadium tours selling out within minutes. He has also out-earned BTS members individually with his recent tour raking in approximately $22 million.
Known as the “Lim Young-woong syndrome,” his popularity domestically has even surpassed that of global superstars like BTS. His moving backstory and exceptional vocals have endeared him to the public, making him a beloved figure in the music industry.
While Lim may not be widely recognized internationally, his fame has spread to North Korea despite strict bans on South Korean music. His emotionally charged performances and relatable personal story have resonated with fans of all ages, especially the elderly.
– Elderly fans –
Lim’s concerts draw tens of thousands of emotionally invested fans, many of whom have never experienced celebrity fandom before. His music has touched the lives of fans like Baek Soon-ok, who credits him with bringing joy into her life during difficult times.
In his hometown of Pocheon city, a cafe dedicated to Lim serves as a gathering place for his loyal fans, known as the Hero Generation. Fans like Lee Bu-duk find strength and happiness in Lim’s music, forming a strong bond with fellow admirers.
Trot prodigy
While K-pop continues to dominate the global music scene, trot is experiencing a resurgence in South Korea, with young artists like Park Sung-on following in Lim’s footsteps. Park, inspired by Lim’s success on “Mr Trot,” has emerged as a promising talent in the genre, releasing his debut single in 2023.
As the popularity of trot continues to grow in South Korea, artists like Lim and Park are leading the way, showcasing the genre’s enduring appeal and emotional resonance with audiences.
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