Veteran Musicians Honor Shin Hae-chul with Tribute Concert on His 10th Anniversary

▲ This photo, provided by Dreamus Company, shows South Korea's veteran singers throwing "Ma Wang 10th: Ghost Stage," the 10th Anniversary tribute concert for late South Korean rock singer Shin Hae-chul, held Oct. 26-27 in Incheon. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

INCHEON, Oct. 28 (Yonhap) -- Fans and musicians alike gathered at Incheon’s Inspire Arena for a heartfelt tribute concert commemorating the 10th anniversary of Shin Hae-chul’s passing. 

The evening opened with fans collectively calling out, “Hae-chul oppa!” and “Hae-chul hyung!” evoking the spirit of the revered musician. Kim Dong-wan from Shinhwa led the tribute, reflecting on how Shin might be smiling from somewhere above.

▲ A photo of late rock singer Shin Hae-chul, provided by Next United on May 3, 2024. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

The show began with a stirring performance by Shin’s band, NEXT, who revisited their hit “Destruction of the Shell,” filling the vocalist’s spot with guest singers Hong Kyung-min, Go Yoo-jin, and Kim Dong-wan. Famed for his poignant lyrics and outspoken style, Shin’s legacy resonated with the audience, with songs like “City People” evoking memories and emotions even three decades after their release.

Following NEXT’s opening, a lineup of Shin’s fellow artists, including Xdinary Heroes, Epik High, and Guckkasten, took to the stage. Epik High’s rendition of Shin’s debut song “To You” brought back memories of Shin’s early days, with a video of his youthful image playing on the screen. Guckkasten’s Ha Hyun-woo delivered powerful renditions of “Invitation to Everyday Life” and “Lazenca, Save Us,” receiving enthusiastic responses from fans who sang along.

▲ This photo shows the recreated studio of late Korean legendary rock singer Shin Hae-chul at his 10th Anniversary Tribute Concert in homage of his creativity and legacy. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

The concert reached a poignant note with the performance of “Eel’s Dream,” a song Shin had once said he wished to be played at his own memorial. Fans responded with gentle waves of light from their phones, a collective tribute to his enduring impact. The night closed with Lee Seung-hwan’s deeply emotional “When Our Lives Come to an End,” bringing the audience to a reflective silence.

This tribute concert not only honored Shin’s lasting contributions to music but also celebrated the community of fans who continue to cherish his work.

▲ This poster, provided by Dreamus Company, promotes "Ma Wang 10th: Ghost Stage," the 10th Anniversary tribute concert for late South Korean rock singer Shin Hae-chul. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

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