Trot: The sad soundtrack of colonial Korea is back - but this time it's different
BBC World
February 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Trot, South Korea's traditional music genre, is making a surprising comeback after years of being overshadowed by K-pop. Once dismissed as outdated and tacky, trot has regained popularity through social media trends where AI transforms K-pop hits into catchy trot versions, paired with retro-style visuals. This revival has sparked debates, with some praising the innovation while others question its authenticity and raise copyright concerns.
Trot first emerged in the 1930s during Korea's Japanese colonial period, blending folk traditions with Japanese enka and Western jazz influences. Characterized by its emotional depth, trot songs often reflect themes of sorrow and longing tied to Korea's history of foreign subjugation. Musically, it features minor scales, heavy vibrato, and kkeokgi—a vocal technique that heightens emotional expression. These elements, combined with iconic visuals of glittering suits and teased hair, have made classic trot singers like Nam Jin and Na Hoon-A enduring legends.
The genre's resurgence is partly driven by new artists like Lim Young-woong, who rose to fame through reality TV-style audition programs. Lim has become a household name, even performing at Seoul's World Cup Stadium in 2024—a prestigious achievement shared by K-pop giants like Psy and BigBang. This revival also highlights Korea's growing nostalgia for its cultural roots, as younger generations reconnect with trot's historical significance.
Despite its renewed popularity, critics argue that the AI-driven trends dilute trot's essence. The genre's core audience remains those who grew up with it, but its appeal to younger audiences through modern platforms raises questions about cultural preservation versus innovation. As trot continues to evolve, its journey reflects broader shifts in how South Koreans engage with their musical heritage and history.
This revival matters because it challenges the dominance of K-pop while offering a window into Korea's complex historical narrative. Trot's comeback not only highlights the resilience of traditional culture but also underscores the power of social media and technology in redefining cultural norms. For readers interested in global culture, this story offers insights into how music can serve as a bridge between past and present, connecting generations while sparking meaningful conversations about identity and tradition.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/21/2026