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[Japan–Korea Spotlight Again] Feature on Korean Enka Singers, Trot Singers
Trot, a genre loved in Korea just like K-pop.
Its style—shaped by the influence of Japanese enka and its own unique evolution—draws you in from the very first listen.
In recent years, audition shows have produced a remarkable number of trot stars.
In this article, we’ll introduce not only the singers who perform this kind of trot, but also many veteran masters who have long sung songs with a classic enka-like atmosphere.
Even the same singer can shift styles depending on the song, so start with a track you like and use it as a springboard to find your favorite artist!
[Japan-Korea Spotlight Again] Feature on Korean enka singers, trot singers (1–10)
계단말고 엘리베이터Imu Yonu-un (Imu Yonu-un)
Lim Young-woong is a singer whose popularity rivals that of top K-pop groups.
His fame is especially fervent in South Korea.
After winning the 2020 audition program “Mr.
Trot,” he drew widespread attention, and his OST song “Love Always Runs Away” for the drama “Young Lady and Gentleman” became a massive hit, elevating him to the status of a national singer.
The core of his music feels like an embrace.
Building on his exceptional vocal ability, he has recently mastered a wide range of genres beyond trot, making him a truly perfect all-rounder.
He’s a must-listen artist even for those who aren’t trot fans.
Come Back to Busan Port (Return to Busan Port)Cho Yong-pil
Cho Yong-pil, known as a national icon and one of Korea’s most beloved singers, began his career in the late 1960s and has excelled across a wide range of genres, including rock and ballads.
He made his debut in 1968, went solo in the 1970s, and released timeless hits such as “Come Back to Busan Port” and “Let’s Go on a Journey.” With his exceptional vocal ability and singular charisma, he has won numerous music awards.
Marking the 45th anniversary of his debut in 2013, he released the album “Hello,” cementing his unshakable status in the Korean music scene.
Cho Yong-pil’s voice carries a universal appeal that resonates across generations.
He is highly recommended for anyone looking to explore Korean music.
Convenience store(편의점)I chanwon (I·chanwon)
Lee Chan-won, whose popularity is rapidly rising in the trot scene, is a prodigy who has consistently showcased his musical talent since childhood.
Starting with the Youth Trot Song Festival in 2007, he went on to win numerous awards on National Singing Contest.
He achieved a full-fledged breakthrough by placing third on Mister Trot in 2020.
He excels at modern arrangements of traditional Korean enka-style trot, captivating listeners with his bright, powerful vocal tone.
His accolades are impressive as well, including the Didimdol Award at the 17th Korea Image Awards in 2021 and the Hot Trend Award at the 12th Melon Music Awards.
He is a highly skilled artist recommended not only for trot fans but also for those seeking a fresh essence of Korean music.
Have a drinkHon Jinyon (Hon Jin’yon)
Korea was greatly influenced by Japanese enka and eventually forged its own musical culture known as trot.
Hailing from Gwangju, Hong Jin-young is a skilled singer who has modernized this trot tradition.
Since her solo debut in 2009, she has gained popularity with bright, energetic performances and has produced many hit songs.
She has received numerous awards, including the Best Trot Award at the 29th Golden Disc Awards in 2015.
Active on variety shows and in high demand as an advertising model, she continues to draw attention.
With songs that blend traditional trot with contemporary arrangements, Hong Jin-young is beloved by listeners of all ages, and her voice is sure to bring energy and courage to those who hear it.
A Woman’s Heart in WaitingKatsura Ginshuku (Kei Unsuku)
Kei Un-Suk is an enka singer born in 1961 who made a major impact not only in South Korea but also in Japan.
She debuted as a singer in 1979, and the following year won the Rookie of the Year award at the MBC Top 10 Singers Song Festival for “Matteiru Onna-gokoro” (A Waiting Woman’s Heart).
Discovered by composer Keisuke Hama, she made her Japan debut in 1985.
With many hit songs—such as “Suzume no Namida,” which she performed on the Red and White Song Battle, and “Yoido Rete,” which won the Japan Cable Awards Grand Prix—she is likely familiar to anyone who has listened to Japanese enka.
Her husky, richly expressive voice draws listeners in.