Busking in the Streets of Hongdae: ACOPIA Intern Experience

Another fun, dance-filled Monday evening in Seoul!

ACOPIA’s intern hits the week off busking in one of the most popular places in Hongdae for live music and dance. Sophie has been dancing in ACOPIA’s studio since February, practicing the latest K-Pop moves with her dance instructor and other ACOPIA trainees. The Asia Hope Camp Organization offers free dance classes two hours a week for interns; a wonderful opportunity to seize for avid dancers like Sophie.  

Dressed in the most fashionable Korean streetwear, Sophie marches to Hongdae Shopping Street and waits for her chance to perform in the spotlight. As the crowd begins to build around her, ACOPIA interns watch and cheer in support of their workmate dancing to SISTA’s “Shake it”, BTS’s “Boy With Luv”, BLACKPINK’s “Kill This Love”, Jason Derulo’s “Swalla” with BLACKPINK Lisa’s choreography, and finally Mamamou’s “Gogobebe.” Sophie is fun, energetic, and easily captures onlookers’ attentions. Finishing her set, the crowd explodes into cheers!

A long-time fan of anything and everything K-Pop, Sophie enjoys busking in Hongdae during her free time. Something very interesting to observe in this busking scene is not only the increase in foreigners visiting the shopping street and watching buskers perform, but also the active participation of foreigners in busking. Looking around Hongdae, you can see non-Korean dancers and singers also taking a shot at fame. 

If you find yourself strolling around Hongdae, perhaps you’ll get the chance of seeing Sophie’s  performances live! 

Article written by Cleo