Doesn’t the name “Gangnam Style” ring a bell? It is more than just a song. It is a cultural phenomenon that put Gangnam-gu in Seoul on the global map.
Gangnam-gu means “south of the river”. This modern area has wider streets than other parts of Seoul. It is known for its high-end restaurants and clubs.
Gangnam-gu became world famous because of Psy’s “Gangnam Style”. The term “Gangnam Style” refers to the nouveau riche lifestyles of the Gangnam region of Seoul. People there are trendy and hip. They exude class. Psy likened Gangnam to Beverly Hills. He intended the title as a joke. He claimed he has “Gangnam Style”. Everything about the song dance looks and video is far from high class.
“Gangnam Style” was released on July 15 2012. It debuted at number one on South Korea’s Gaon Chart. People praised its catchy beat and Psy’s dancing. The song and music video became viral in August 2012. They influenced popular culture. “Gangnam Style” peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US. At the time it was the highest charting song by a South Korean artist. By the end of 2012 “Gangnam Style” topped music charts in over 30 countries.
Psy said “Gangnam Style” was for local K-pop fans. Promotional teasers were released on YouTube. The full music video was uploaded on July 15 2012. It received about 500000 views on its first day.
The song has mixed reviews from music critics. One praised it for spreading smiles. Another said it was generic Euro dance with guitars. The South Korean Minister of Culture said “Gangnam Style” introduced Korean culture to the world. Others criticized it for not accurately representing South Korean culture.
The music video has comical dance moves easy to copy. The United Nations hailed Psy as an international sensation. They noted his satirical video and horse-riding-like dance moves.
The video starts with Psy at a playground not a sandy beach. He does his signature invisible horse dance. He dances at a tennis court and on a tour bus. The chorus starts as he dances at a horse stable. He dances with a man in a yellow suit. Psy raps on a toilet with his pants down.
Guest appearances include 4Minute member Hyuna and comedian Yoo Jae-suk. Hwang Min-woo dances at the beginning of the video. The video was shot over 48 hours in July 2012. Only two scenes were filmed in Gangnam.
After its release “Gangnam Style” reached number one on YouTube Top 100 Music Videos. It became the most viewed K-pop video on YouTube.
The success of “Gangnam Style” led to other K-pop artists trying to break into the US music industry. The South Korean government said “Gangnam Style” brought in millions to the country’s audio sector.
The song has won many awards. It holds records for most viewed K-pop video and most liked video on YouTube. It was the first K-pop song to top the UK Singles Chart.
Gangnam Style is more than a song. It’s a global phenomenon that showcases Seoul’s vibrant Gangnam district. It’s a mix of satire catchy beats and unforgettable dance moves. Gangnam Style earned its place in music history. In 2015 a statue was placed in the Gangnam District in honor of the song.