The Rise of Radio Stars: Lee Dong-baek, Noh Byeok-hwa, and Yang Ju-sam

The introduction of Korean-language broadcasts in 1933 led to a significant increase in radio adoption across Korea. Traditional music, particularly Korean folk songs, experienced a renaissance as it spread nationwide through radio. Various stars emerged in genres ranging from traditional music and Western classical to popular songs, religious talks, literary lectures, and radio dramas.

The monthly magazine 'JoGwang' heralded the 'Radio Era' in its 1936 New Year issue, noting that not only the intellectual elite but also workers were installing radios in their homes. This included a variety of programs such as traditional songs, popular music, classical music, and educational content like religious lectures and storytelling.

The Gyeongseong Broadcasting Station (call sign JODK), which began broadcasting on February 16, 1927, initially only aired in Japanese, and the high cost of radio receivers limited its reach. However, the establishment of a separate Korean-language broadcast in April 1933 led to a surge in radio registrations among Koreans, increasing from just 6,401 in 1933 to 144,912 by 1941. While the penetration rate was only 1.84% in 1939, the communal listening experience made this figure significant.

Research indicates that over 70% of entertainment programming in the 1930s was music, with traditional music comprising 50-70% of that. Traditional genres like 판소리 (pansori) and 민요 (minyo) transcended their origins and gained national popularity through radio.

Among the notable figures of this era was Lee Dong-baek (1866-1949), a celebrated male singer known for his remarkable voice even in his seventies. He was a favorite of King Gojong and held the title of 'National Singer' (국창).

In the realm of popular music, stars like Noh Byeok-hwa, Seon Woo-il-seon, and Kang Hong-sik emerged. Noh Byeok-hwa, a singer who debuted in September 1935, gained fame with her song 'Nak-hwa Sam-cheon,' which tells the tragic story of the Three Thousand Beauties who jumped from Nak-hwa Rock during the fall of Baekje. Her performance on Gyeongseong Broadcasting Station just a month before her debut showcased her talent alongside established artists.

Seon Woo-il-seon, another popular figure, debuted in 1934 and was noted for his smooth voice, likened to silk. His songs, including 'Joseon Palgyeongga' and 'Neungsu Byeoll,' contributed to his popularity, earning him the title 'King of Minyo' alongside Wang Su-bok.

Kang Hong-sik (1902-1971) was also a leading star of the 1930s, reflecting on the unpredictable nature of a singer's career based on public popularity.

Religious lectures became a staple on radio, with figures like Kwon Sang-ro and Yang Ju-sam serving as prominent speakers. The radio also featured a variety of Western music, showcasing the talents of first-generation Korean musicians.

Radio dramas gained immense popularity, with the 'Radio Premeting' group leading the way, featuring actors like Bok Hye-sook and director Park Jin, who left a lasting impact on Korean theater.

These individuals and their contributions marked the golden age of radio in Korea, shaping the cultural landscape of the time.