2024 KBS Song Festival Unites Generations of K-Pop Artists
The '2024 KBS Gayo Daechukje Global Festival' held on December 20 at Ilsan KINTEX brought together a diverse lineup of artists from various generations, igniting the stage with spectacular performances. This year's festival embraced the theme of 'Infinity,' showcasing how K-pop musicians from different eras are interconnected through music. Hosted by Zico, IVE's Jang Won-young, and actor Kim Young-dae, the event featured performances from popular groups including NCT 127, NCT DREAM, ENHYPEN, aespa, (G)I-DLE, IVE, BOYNEXTDOOR, Lee Chan-won, Jang Min-ho, Young-tak, Lee Young-ji, P1Harmony, ONEUS, Kep1er, CRAVITY, KISS OF LIFE, tripleS, and UNIS.
One of the highlights was the rare cross-generational collaboration stages. DJ KOO (Koo Jun-yup) performed 'Choryeon' with UNIS, Kep1er, and tripleS, featuring impressive choreography and DJ skills. S.E.S.'s Bada joined CRAVITY for a vibrant rendition of 'MAD,' showcasing her powerful vocals and unique high notes. She also performed a mashup of aespa's 'Next Level' and S.E.S.'s 'Dreams Come True,' adding a fresh twist.
Jinusean, alongside MC Jang Won-young and BOYNEXTDOOR, delivered a memorable collaboration, starting with 'Phone Number' that highlighted their distinctive hip-hop vibe. Jinusean's performance of 'A-Yo' demonstrated their timeless visuals and rap skills, while Jang Won-young paid homage to senior artist Uhm Jung-hwa with 'Malhaejwo,' showcasing their chemistry.
Baby V.O.X made headlines by reuniting for a full group performance after 14 years, opening with 'Get Up' and impressing the audience with their stunning visuals and powerful stage presence. They also performed 'U-Yeon,' evoking nostalgia with a dance break, and concluded with 'Killer' alongside KISS OF LIFE.
In addition, Kim Young-dae made his debut as an MC, showcasing his vocal talent in a collaboration with ENHYPEN's Heeseung on 'Snowman.' NCT's Mark and Lee Young-ji premiered their new song 'Fraktsiya (Feat. Lee Young-ji),' delivering a charismatic rap performance reminiscent of a spy film. ENHYPEN's Jungwon and Jay, (G)I-DLE's Miyeon, IVE's Liz, and BOYNEXTDOOR's Seongho moved the audience with their rendition of god's 'Road.'
The festival concluded with the original 'Apartment' singer Yoon Soo-il, as all performers gathered on stage to remix his song with Rosé's 'Apartment,' creating an explosive finale.
