K-pop pioneer Seo Tai-ji reflects on political turmoil in candid Christmas message
Summary
K-pop pioneer Seo Tai-ji reflected on Korea’s political turmoil in a Christmas message posted on Tuesday. He linked the country’s first impeachment proceedings in seven years to his 1995 hit Regret of the Times, praised fans and younger protesters, and wished readers a safe holiday and a strong 2025. He also shared brief personal updates about his son and his own middle-aged generation.
Key Facts
- Seo said the country was facing its first impeachment proceedings in seven years and said it was regrettable to face another impeachment as 2025 approached.
- He connected the current political mood to his 1995 hit Regret of the Times.
- Seo said many of his fans participated in the demonstrations and noted that many people in their 20s joined the rallies.
- He shared that his son once wanted to become a dinosaur professional, later shifted to studying birds, and recently became interested in the violin.
Singer Seo Tai-ji / Captured from @seotaejicompany on Instagram
Often credited as the pioneer of K-pop, singer Seo Tai-ji greeted fans on Tuesday through a social media post while sharing his thoughts on Korea's current political situation.
In the post, Seo opened his remarks with a warm reflection on the passage of time.
"Another year has passed, and here we are in December, with Christmas just around the corner," he wrote. "This year marked the year of Gapjin (according to the 60-year cycle) — did everyone achieve their valuable dreams?"
Seo shared that he, too, had been working toward personal goals. "I feel like I've managed to accomplish some small dreams of my own," he said.
He then turned his attention to the nation's political turmoil, referencing the impeachment proceedings that are now underway.
"With the country abuzz over its first impeachment proceedings in seven years, it's a 'Regret of the Times' to think we're facing another impeachment as we step into 2025," he wrote, linking the current events to his 1995 hit song.
The singer also reflected on the role that K-pop fans played in recent impeachment rallies. "It seems many of my fans participated in the demonstrations — do your old light sticks still work?" he asked.
Commending the younger generation for their activism, he added, "I heard a lot of people in their 20s joined this time. It brought back memories of our own struggles and made me proud ... Now, let's become the uncles and aunts who unwaveringly back these young leaders shaping our future."
He also reminisced about his heyday and the era he grew up in, blending humor with nostalgia.
"We, too, had our turbulent youth as Generation X — the so-called 'Seo Tai-ji generation' — but now we're already middle-aged ... How was 2024 for everyone? Is middle age treating you well?"
Seo offered a glimpse into his personal life as well, sharing updates about his son. "When he was little, my son dreamed of becoming a dinosaur professional. Now that dinosaurs are considered ancestors of birds, his dream has shifted to studying birds," Seo revealed.
"And recently, he's developed an interest in the violin (though I would have preferred the guitar)," he added, offering fans a rare peek into his life as a father.
Concluding his message, Seo extended a holiday wish.
"Though the nation's state remains unsettled and challenges lie ahead, I hope you all have a warm and safe Christmas with your loved ones and friends," he wrote. "Don't worry — I'll be back. Stay healthy and let's welcome an exciting 2025 together."
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