ENA '체인지 스트릿' 12화 최종회 20일 방송
허영지·윤산하·후이 등 한일 아티스트 버스킹
도쿄타워·서울 홍대서 동시 문화교류 무대
Final Busking Journey of 'Change Street' Marks a New Era in Korea-Japan Cultural Exchange
The final busking journey of 'Change Street', a groundbreaking Korea-Japan cultural exchange program, is set to unfold.

On the 20th, ENA will air the 12th episode of 'Change Street', a monumental project commemorating the 60th anniversary of Korea-Japan diplomatic relations.

'Change Street' is a novel cultural exchange program where leading artists from Korea and Japan immerse themselves in each other's streets, languages, and emotions, connecting through music. The final episode promises to showcase the most vibrant moments of this cultural exchange.

What performances will the Korean and Japanese artists present?

In this episode, Korean team members Heo Young-ji from KARA, Yoon San-ha from ASTRO, Hui from PENTAGON, and HYNN (Park Hye-won) will perform under Tokyo Tower, while Japanese team members Miwa and Kano Miyu will continue their busking on the rooftop of the Rise Autograph Collection Hotel in Seoul's Hongdae.

Final Busking Journey of 'Change Street' Marks a New Era in Korea-Japan Cultural Exchange
The stages will be filled with timeless hits spanning generations from both countries. From Taeyeon's 'All About You' from the drama 'Hotel Del Luna' to T-Max's 'Paradise' from 'Boys Over Flowers', and hits by Official Hige Dandism and Seiko Matsuda, the performances will deeply resonate with the audience.

Why is Heo Young-ji's rendition of 'Lovable' making waves?

Heo Young-ji has reinterpreted Kim Jong-kook's 'Lovable', a hit in Japan, with her own bright and lively style, showcasing her 'human vitamin' persona. Kangnam humorously suggests that Kim Jong-kook should hand over the song to her, while Shin Dong-yup praises it, saying, "A classic has no expiration date. It feels like a reverse trend is coming."

In the studio, special guest Ai Takahashi and MC Yunho from TVXQ will perform the 'Lovable' challenge stage. The perfect choreography of these legendary idols from Korea and Japan creates another iconic moment, adding to the fun. Additionally, when Yunho asks Kangnam, who married in 2019, "When does your wife look lovable?", Kangnam humorously confesses, "When I see my wife Lee Sang-hwa's back muscles," bringing laughter to the set.

What emotions will unfold in the final performance?

Finally, Hui will close the stage with T-Max's 'Paradise'. The moment when the entire Korean youth team sings together conveys the passionate energy of youth, leaving a deep impression.

The Japanese team will respond with beloved J-pop classics in Korea. Miwa will deliver a refreshing rendition of Seiko Matsuda's 'Blue Coral Reef', and Kano Miyu will surprise with a dance to Miwa's song, enhancing the refreshing atmosphere. Kano Miyu will also present a romantic stage with Miki Matsubara's 'Stay With Me', captivating both the audience and the band session.

Towards the end of the broadcast, a concert featuring all the Korean and Japanese artists is announced. Shin Dong-yup raises expectations, saying, "The performances in both Korea and Japan will be a true cultural exchange." As 'Change Street' approaches its final busking, it promises a moment where different languages and emotions unite through music, leaving a lasting impression on Korea-Japan cultural exchange.

The 'Change Street' soundtrack is available on major music sites, and the full version of the busking videos can be viewed on the official 'Change Street' YouTube channel.

Lee So-jung, Ten Asia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr

Related topics: Change Street, Korea-Japan Cultural Exchange, Heo Young-ji, Yoon San-ha, Hui, ENA