Peppertones Shine at 2025 ATA Festival with AI-Human Chemistry

The dynamic duo Peppertones, consisting of Lee Jang-won and Shin Jae-pyung, showcased their unique AI-human chemistry at the '2025 ATA Festival' held at Nanji Hangang Park in Seoul on the 27th. Known as the 'AI representative of the entertainment world,' Lee Jang-won has been performing alongside Shin Jae-pyung for 22 years.

Peppertones delivered captivating performances of their hit songs 'Park Trip' and 'Good Luck' at the festival.

Shin Jae-pyung expressed his excitement, saying, "We're thrilled to perform at the inaugural ATA Festival this year. We'll do our best to create an enjoyable stage for everyone." Lee Jang-won humorously added, "ATA is great!"

When asked about each other's TMI (Too Much Information), Lee Jang-won commented, "Shin Jae-pyung looks like he doesn't exercise, but he works out diligently." Shin Jae-pyung responded, "Lee Jang-won can't handle spicy food," leading to a playful exchange between the two. Lee Jang-won retorted, "I can eat it," only for Shin Jae-pyung to correct him, "Not very well," eliciting laughter.

Regarding his reputation as the entertainment industry's AI representative, Lee Jang-won confessed, "I can finally say it. On stage and when making music, I'm human, but in everyday life, I'm a humanoid AI robot." When Shin Jae-pyung asked for recommendations on enjoying the Han River Park, Lee Jang-won playfully suggested, "Why not check out the ATA Festival?" mimicking an AI response.

When questioned about their commitment to 'positive music' since debut, Lee Jang-won explained, "Initially, we started because most domestic music seemed sad, and we wanted to find our place. Now, we aim to convey positive messages with a sense of duty." Shin Jae-pyung added, "We make music and sing with the hope that listeners will smile a lot. Enjoy it."

The ATA Festival lineup on the 27th included headliner Kim Junsu, sub-headliner Jannabi, and Peppertones. Other performers included Lee Mujin, 10cm, H1-KEY, Say My Name, Kyungseo, Park Hye-won, and Hwang Garam. On the second day (28th), headliner Kim Jaejoong will perform, along with K-pop idol groups The Boyz, Tours, Cravity, Ha Sung-woon, Fifty Fifty, 82Major, QWER, Eunice, Bad Villain, and New Beat.

Peppertones debuted in 2004 with the EP 'A Preview.' Last year, they celebrated their 20th anniversary with the release of the album 'Twenty Plenty.' Their popularity remains strong in their 21st year, with the '2025 Peppertones Club Tour' selling out all seats.

The ATA Festival at Nanji Hangang Park offers convenient access with a free shuttle bus running between DMC (Digital Media City Station) and the venue. The bus operates from 9 AM to 10 PM, providing easy transportation between DMC exits 2 and 8, Saenuri Children's Park, and the ticket zone near the venue.