Well-known international musicians have helped make Psy’s next album, raising expectations about how the YouTube sensation will extend his popularity following the unprecedented success of “Gangnam Style” and “Gentleman.”

“Many famous musicians have participated in Psy’s new album,” said Yang Hyun-suk, chief producer of YG Entertainment. “Psy always wanted to work with them, and they are really amazing musicians, even by international standards.”

YG Entertainment is one of South Korea’s big three entertainment agencies, and manages Big Bang, 2NE1 and Psy, among others. Yang told reporters about Psy’s next project at G-Dragon’s Seoul concert on Sunday.

Psy is currently in the United States, working on his upcoming album, and he’s yet to decide whether the tracks should be sung in Korean or English, in consideration of his elevated profile on the global stage.

“The U.S. staff feel it is unnecessary for it to be in English,” Yang said.

Psy refused to make an English version of “Gangnam Style,” and “Gentleman” is also mostly Korean with only a couple of English words, but it managed to gain popularity outside of Korea, thanks to Psy’s distinctive style and addictive rhythm and melodies.

Helped by the huge success at home and abroad, Psy has grabbed a number of lucrative advertising contracts, with his music dominating music charts.

By Yoon Ha-Youn, Intern reporter
(yhayoun@heraldcorp.com)