Unveiling the K-Pop Gift Culture

K-Pop's meteoric rise in recent years has led many to believe that earlier idol groups missed out on the frenzy. However, Jung Won Gwan, a legendary member of the iconic boy group Sobangcha, is here to set the record straight with jaw-dropping stories from the past.

A Blast from the Past

In a captivating interview on the YouTube channel "Song Seung Hwan’s Wonderful Life," Jung reminisced about his days in Sobangcha, one of Korea's pioneering idol groups that burst onto the scene in 1987 with their hit song "Story of Last Night." Though it was a different era, Jung’s anecdotes reveal just how intense life was back then.

Sleepless Success

Jung shared that during their peak, the group operated on just three hours of sleep each night due to an overwhelming schedule filled with events, commercials, and even contracts with 11 nightclubs! "We were so busy; I didn’t even know where my money was. I’d throw on any clothes and find cash hidden in the pockets!" he laughed.

Extravagant Fan Gifts Galore

When delving into fan gifts, Jung highlighted the unique presents he received, thanks to a diverse fan demographic. His older fans, ranging from teens to moms, showered him with luxurious birthday gifts. "On my special day, I’d be gifted gold rings and high-end audio equipment, while my fellow members were inundated with stuffed animals!" he chuckled.

A Room Full of Treasure

Jung revealed a quirky detail about his living space: a small trash bin overflowing with gold accessories, including rings and bracelets. His lavish trinkets were a far cry from the plush toys that decorated his bandmates' rooms.

A Light-Hearted Comparison

The conversation took a nostalgic turn as Song Seung Hwan shared his own stories from the 80s, reminiscing about thoughtful gifts like handmade paper cranes and cozy knitted scarves. The duo humorously pondered the evolution of fan generosity, even suggesting that today’s fans might soon be gifting cryptocurrency!"

Curious to hear more about the wild world of K-Pop gifts and the charming tales of its pioneers? You can dive into the full interview now!