Psy, CNN Interview: "'Hamkkeup Show' Is the Pinnacle of Happiness"

Singer Psy described the value of 'Hamkkeup Show' as "the pinnacle of happiness." On the 9th (Korean time), the new documentary series 'K-Everything' premiered via CNN International. 'K-Everything' is a program that highlights the global influence and roots of Korean culture, which has recently led global cultural trends. Hosted by actor and producer Daniel Dae Kim, the four-part series explores various aspects of Korean culture loved worldwide, including K-pop, dramas, food, and beauty. Psy appeared as the representative interviewee for the K-pop segment. Daniel Dae Kim explained that Psy established the entertainment planning company P Nation based on the global success of 'Gangnam Style,' and that Psy's annual concert series, 'Hamkkeup Show,' accounts for more than 10% of all concert ticket sales in Korea. When Daniel Dae Kim asked, "'Hamkkeup Show' has now become a legend in Korea. It's not easy to perform in the scorching heat of a Korean summer," Psy replied, "A single performance lasts about four hours. When I was young, I felt happy whenever others were happy," and added, "I think my concerts can be called the pinnacle of happiness." He continued, "If I perform in front of 25,000 audience members, I get to see 25,000 faces smiling because of me right before my eyes. At that moment, I feel I could die without any regrets." Episodes about 'Gangnam Style,' which left a monumental mark in K-pop history, were also revealed. Daniel Dae Kim introduced 'Gangnam Style' by saying, "Released in 2012, it broke into the U.S. market and completely changed the status of K-pop. It surpassed 1 billion views on its music video within six months of release, making it the first YouTube video to achieve this record." In response, Psy shared an anecdote about Tiger JK pulling over on the highway shoulder, crying, and calling him, asking, "Do you know what it means to Korean Americans for a song with all Korean lyrics to be played on American radio?" Daniel Dae Kim also empathized, saying, "Just thinking about it makes me emotional." They also exchanged opinions on the 'Gangnam Style' statue erected in Gangnam. Psy, showing a humble attitude, said, "Honestly, personally, I feel embarrassed and unworthy," while Daniel Dae Kim stated, "He is fully qualified. The things Psy has achieved through music have significance beyond Korea to the entire world," expressing the view that it is a proper recognition of Psy's achievements. Additionally, when Daniel Dae Kim asked, "How long did you enjoy the success of 'Gangnam Style'?" Psy answered, "As a singer, I have enjoyed it for a lifetime, but as a composer, it is both a dream and a nightmare. How can I create a better result than this song?"