Trot: The Resurgence of a Colonial-Era Korean Music Genre
Once ridiculed for its tackiness, trot is making a surprising comeback in the digital age.
A century ago, trot emerged as a fusion of Korean folk traditions, Japanese enka, and Western styles like jazz. It became a cultural phenomenon, producing South Korea's first musical superstars like Nam Jin and Na Hoon-A. Their rivalry in the 1960s and 1970s propelled trot to new heights, captivating audiences with its emotional depth and catchy melodies.
However, trot's popularity waned as K-pop gained global traction. Many young people deemed it tacky and outdated, limiting its appeal to older listeners.
But trot is now experiencing a revival, thanks to a new generation of performers and reality TV-style audition programs. The most notable success story is Lim Young-woong, who won a televised trot competition in 2020 and has since become a household name, performing sold-out concerts at Seoul's World Cup Stadium.
Despite the strong ratings of these audition programs, some critics question whether young singers can truly embody the emotionally charged nature of trot. This has led to a mismatch between the market's offerings and the demand among older listeners with greater spending power in an aging society.
However, the rise of AI-generated trot is reshaping the genre's future. Content creators are transforming popular K-pop songs into trot-style tunes, paired with AI-generated images of idols in classic trot singer attire. These videos have gone viral on social media platforms, attracting hundreds of thousands of views.
Despite the trend's popularity, it carries legal risks. Copyright ownership of AI-generated music and images is a complex legal issue. Some creators, like Kim Ji-hoon, acknowledge the controversy and are willing to take down videos if necessary.
Experts suggest that the AI trot trend may be short-lived, driven more by curiosity about AI than genuine appreciation for trot. However, for some creators, the experience has led to a deeper understanding and appreciation of trot's cultural significance, challenging their preconceived notions of its tackiness and outdated nature.
