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| ▲ This image, provided by n.CH Entertainment on June 24, 2024, shows Kim Da-hyun (15) (R) and Sumida Aiko (17) of Korea-Japan trot duo Lucky Pang Pang. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
SEOUL, June 26 (Yonhap) -- "Even if the languages are different, I believe the emotions conveyed in songs are understood. Music, whether in Korea or Japan, captures the human heart." (Sumida Aiko)
Can two teenage girls from different nationalities and languages unite through heartfelt trot music? This scenario, reminiscent of a manga plot, is being realized by Kim Da-hyun (15) and Sumida Aiko (17) as they form the 'Korea-Japan Trot Duo' Lucky Pang Pang. Surpassing the language barrier with music, the duo aims to promote harmony between Korea and Japan.
In an interview on the 21st at an office in Gangnam, Seoul, they expressed their aspirations, saying, "We believe we can become the strongest if we work together" and "We aim to create a stage of harmony that contributes to the exchange between Korea and Japan."
Kim Da-hyun and Sumida Aiko formed their team after appearing on the MBN show 'Korea-Japan King of Singers,’ which features trot singers from both countries. As the youngest members of their respective teams, they earned the nickname 'Golden Maknae' for their remarkable performances.
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| ▲ This image, provided by n.CH Entertainment on June 24, 2024, shows singers Kim Da-hyun (L) and of Korea-Japan trot duo Lucky Pang Pang. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
They are set to release their debut single 'Damdadi' on the 29th, officially beginning their activities as Lucky Pang Pang. The team name, meaning to bring vibrant and exciting energy through their songs, was inspired by the phrase 'Pang Pang' from the chorus of their debut song. Sumida explained, "We thought 'Lucky' suited us, and we wanted a fresh and fun term, so we added 'Pang Pang' from the chorus of 'Damdadi.'"
'Damdadi,' originally released by Lee Sang-eun in 1988, has been reinterpreted as a disco version, featuring powerful performances. Kim Da-hyun, who struggled with the demanding choreography, recounted her experience, saying, "During the initial practice, my dance moves were so sloppy that I thought I looked like a squid. I practiced tirelessly, learning how to add strength to my moves, which helped me grow personally."
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| ▲ This image, provided by n.CH Entertainment on June 24, 2024, shows Kim Da-hyun (15) (R) and Sumida Aiko (17) of Korea-Japan trot duo Lucky Pang Pang. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
The duo, who faced each other twice in 'Korea-Japan King of Singers,' found that becoming a team allowed them to learn much from each other. Despite Kim Da-hyun winning both contests, she found new inspiration in Sumida's unique stage presence. Kim Da-hyun remarked, "I was amazed by Sumida's emotional expression and dance power on stage. It made me want to explore various genres together."
Balancing their studies with their entertainment careers, they rely on each other for support, communicating through translation apps despite language barriers. Kim Da-hyun shared, "I feel like I've gained an adorable older sister to lean on. It's great to get advice from her and learn Japanese." Sumida echoed this sentiment, stating that her activities in Korea would be invaluable for her future singing career. Her rendition of the 80s hit 'Gingira Gin' during 'Korea-Japan King of Singers' garnered over 4 million views on YouTube, gaining significant attention.
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| ▲ This image, provided by n.CH Entertainment on June 24, 2024, shows still photos of the music video of "Damdadi" sung by Korea-Japan trot duo Lucky Pang Pang. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
Sumida noted, "Korean trot and Japanese 'Showa' songs have similarities, making it easier to convey emotions. Although I was initially anxious about adapting to Korea, I'm grateful for the warm reception and will continue my activities with a thankful heart."
With Lucky Pang Pang, the duo has taken their first step toward greater dreams. Kim Da-hyun, who debuted in 2020 as a 'Korean Trot Fairy' and gained domestic popularity, is now closer to her goal of becoming a global singer. Sumida, a member of the Japanese idol group 'Splash' (SPL∞ASH), currently appears on MBN's 'Korea-Japan Top Ten Show,' commuting between Korea and Japan. Her goal is to introduce trot music to Japan, leveraging her experiences in Korea.
"I aspire to be a singer with a diverse range of sounds and tones, active on the global stage. We will showcase new performances through Lucky Pang Pang." (Kim Da-hyun)
"Just as trot is hugely popular in Korea, I will work hard so that everyone in Japan can also appreciate the charm of trot." (Sumida Aiko)
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