Legendary Britpop band Pulp announced as headliner
The Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival, one of South Korea’s premier rock festivals, has unveiled the first names on this year's lineup, which features a blend of legendary acts and rising stars from around the globe.
Pulp, the iconic Britpop band often referred to as one of the "Big Four" of the genre, is the headliner of the festival, which celebrates its 20th year this year. The upcoming performance marks Pulp’s first-ever concert in Korea. Formed in 1978, the band rose to prominence in the 1990s with hits like “Babies,” “Disco 2000" and “Common People.” The band recently thrilled fans by announcing plans to release a new album this year — its first release in 24 years.
Japanese rock band Asian Kung-Fu Generation will also headline the festival. Since the band's debut in 2003, the band has garnered critical acclaim for its emotional melodies, dynamic vocals and powerful instrumentals. The band last appeared at Pentaport Rock Festival in 2007.
The lineup also includes singer-songwriter Beabadoobee, selected as part of the BBC’s “Sound of 2020,” and the atmospheric experience that is DeafHeaven, pioneers of the blackgaze genre.
Among Korean artists featured in the announcement is singer-songwriter Chang Ki-ha, known for his broad musical range including film scores and band work. Hyukoh, the band which recently wrapped up its Asia tour, will team up with Taiwanese indie band Sunset Rollercoaster, while Balming Tiger will showcase its unique sound.
The lineup also includes singer-songwriter Meaningful Stone, Band Nah and genre-defying vocalist Song Sohee, who bridges Korean traditional music and rock. Hanrorro, who recently featured as a guest act at Coldplay’s Korea concert, will also perform alongside prominent Korean bands Touched and Lucy.
The 2025 Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival will be held Aug. 1-3 at Songdo Moonlight Festival Park in Incheon. Around 60 domestic and international artists are expected to perform. In celebration of its 20th year, the festival will also feature limited-edition merchandise and a series of events reflecting on the journey of the Korean rock scene since Pentaport’s inception in 2006.
jy@heraldcorp.com
