Experience Cultural Harmony with 'Change Street': A Unique Musical Exchange Between Korea and Japan

'Change Street' captures moments of empathy on the streets.

On the 31st, ENA will air the sixth episode of the monumental project 'Change Street' (directed by Oh Joon-sung), commemorating the 60th anniversary of Korea-Japan diplomatic relations.

'Change Street' is a groundbreaking cultural exchange program where leading artists from Korea and Japan delve into each other's streets, languages, and emotions to connect through music.

In the sixth episode, following the previous broadcast, the Korean team, featuring actors Lee Dong-hwi (40), Lee Sang-yi (34), and Jung Ji-so (26), will perform a busking session at the Tokyo Korean School. Meanwhile, the Japanese team, consisting of Crystal Kay, Koda Kumi, May J., and Kawasaki Takaya, will take the stage at Korea's Guui Station NC East Pole.

The Korean team captivates with popular OSTs and timeless classics. Lee Dong-hwi transforms from an actor who captivated millions to a busker enchanting the streets of Japan with Ann One's 'Love Alone'. Matsuda, a manager, praised, "He looks even more handsome because he sings so well," while Shin Dong-yup added, "I plan to download Lee Dong-hwi's song first," warming the atmosphere.

The episode also reveals candid stories from MC Yunho of TVXQ. Despite family opposition, he pursued a singing career, sharing, "I moved to Seoul with 380,000 won, surviving without parental support through part-time jobs and homelessness," reflecting on his intense journey toward his dream. Gangnam also shares his experience of facing his father's strong opposition to his singing aspirations, adding, "I felt like I was thrown away," resonating with viewers.

The Japanese team introduces a fresh format with 'Relay Q&A Busking'. In this stage, questions and answers become songs. May J. receives the question, "What is your favorite Korean song?" and spontaneously performs 'Golden', the OST from the Netflix film 'K-Pop Demon Hunters', delivering a high-quality performance even in an unprepared moment. Kawasaki Takaya reveals his special friendship with singer Sung Si-kyung and Tomorrow X Together, adding intrigue. He shares that not only did he work on songs with Sung Si-kyung, but they are also close drinking buddies, bringing laughter to the scene.

Crystal Kay introduces her singer mother, Shunkei, expressing respect by saying, "She is the closest senior to me, having sung even before I was born." Her performance of her hit song 'If You Fall in Love' naturally showcases the singer DNA inherited from her mother, leaving a deep impression.

Another touching moment occurs when Koda Kumi's husband, KENJI03, watches her perform Ou Yang Fei Fei's 'Love Is Over' from the studio, tearing up. He shares, "I usually see her as the artist Koda Kumi while working on her songs, but this time, I saw her purely as my wife," conveying his unique feelings. Shin Dong-yup observes, "KENJI03 made a good marriage," wrapping up the scene with laughter and applause.

'Change Street' is co-produced by Forest Media, Hangangfore ENM, and ENA, airing every Saturday at 9:30 PM on ENA.

Each episode offers a fresh arrangement, allowing audiences to enjoy classic songs in a new way with full bands and the voices of Korean and Japanese artists. The 'Change Street' music tracks are released every Saturday at noon on major music sites, and full busking videos can be viewed on the official 'Change Street' YouTube channel.

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