Korean shamanic punk, K-folk pop or Korean psychedelic – many have tried to define the sound of ADG7 (Ak Dan Gwang Chil) from South Korea.
Blending tradition with vibrant pop flair, the nine-member ensemble are known for their electrifying performances and bold reimagining of Korean ritual and folk music. They were formed in 2015 to mark Korea’s 70th year of liberation - “Gwang” means “national liberation” while “chil” (the number seven) refers to the 70th anniversary. The group draws inspiration from the sacred gut (shamanic rituals) and minyo (folk songs) of the Hwanghae Province, channeling spiritual energy through soaring vocals, hypnotic melodies, intensely colored costumes and dynamic choreography.
Led by the singers Hong Ok, Myeong Wol and Yoo Wol and backed by master musicians on traditional instruments like the daeguem, gayageum, piri, and ajaeng, ADG7 brings ancient Korean sounds into the present with humor, heart, and a touch of psychedelic flair. Their genre-defying music has earned global acclaim, including standout performances at WOMEX 2019 and globalFEST 2020. “When we talk about gut, we try to give the audience the feeling of being blown away by the powerful sound when we actually perform,” the singer Hong Ok has explained. This autumn, Oslo World awaits one of the most exciting live acts in Korean music.
