From Baekje's O-aksa to Alpha Drive One, 2026 K-Forum

Musicians from the Baekje Gilt-Bronze Incense Burner Come Alive on Stage

The Grand Ballroom of Conrad Seoul in Yeouido was filled with the melodies of Baekje. The protagonists who opened the '2026 K-Forum' held on the 9th were the Baekje Gayageum Ensemble. They opened the event by recreating the five musicians engraved on the Baekje Gilt-Bronze Incense Burner on a modern stage.

Five instruments appeared on stage: Wanham (pipa), Jeok (flute), So (pipe), Baekjegeum (geomungo), and Go (drum). The ensemble thoroughly researched the shapes and sounds of the instruments. The storytelling stage, which meticulously implemented the costumes and hairstyles of that era, drew the audience into deep immersion. Since its founding in 2007, the Baekje Gayageum Ensemble has worked toward the modernization and globalization of traditional music, and through this opening, they showcased the historical value and artistic perfection of our music.

Now in its fourth year, the K-Forum is a venue to review the achievements of K-content and K-brands gaining attention in the global market and to explore future marketing directions. Held under the theme 'Play K,' this forum used a stage performance to unfold the process of K-content expanding beyond simple viewing into a culture that the public directly enjoys and experiences.

Kim Jun-su's Chuimsae, Hans's Sensibility, and Alpha Drive One's Energy

Kim Jun-su, who finished 5th in 'Active Singer 2,' took charge of a special stage. Appearing with a performance utilizing a fan, he burst forth with a refreshing and powerful voice while singing his first song, 'Eosa Chuldu.'

Midway through the stage, Kim Jun-su suggested how to breathe with the audience. He said, "Many people find Pansori unfamiliar," and added, "While cheering and clapping are good when performing our sound, exchanging 'Chuimsae' (traditional rhythmic exclamations) will make enjoying Gugak even more fun." When Kim Jun-su personally led with "Eolssigu!", "Jota!" (Good!), and "Jalhanda!" (Well done!), the audience responded with immediate Chuimsae. He then showcased the unique vocal volume of Pansori by presenting modern reinterpretations of familiar songs such as 'Mot Chatgetda Kkekkori' and 'Deojil Deojil.'

Indie pop-soul artist Hans took over the stage. Debuting in 2024, Hans sang his first song, 'As Flowers Bloom and Fade.' Having recorded a reverse climb on the music charts after his song was used as an unofficial OST for the film 'The King and the Man,' which drew ten million viewers this year, he followed up with 'Happy Blue' and 'Be My Rose' with his signature husky tone.

The finale of the event was decorated by the eight-member multinational group Alpha Drive One, formed through Mnet's 'Boys Planet 2.' Having become million sellers with 1.44 million copies sold in their first week for their debut album 'Euphoria,' they began their stage with 'OMG!'. The subsequent performance of 'Freak Alarm' heightened the heat of the event with its fast beat and powerful choreography. Alpha Drive One has previously won four awards on music programs for their title track 'Freak Alarm.'