Korean and Japanese Artists Unite in 'Change Street' for a Musical Cultural Exchange

'Change Street' is set to unveil new musical scenes on the streets of Korea and Japan.

On the 20th, ENA will air the 8th episode of the grand project 'Change Street', celebrating the 60th anniversary of Korea-Japan diplomatic relations.

'Change Street' is a groundbreaking cultural exchange program where leading artists from Korea and Japan immerse themselves in each other's streets, languages, and emotions to connect through music. In this 8th episode, the Korean team will perform at Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse in Japan, while the Japanese team will busk at NC East Pole in Seoul, offering a unique spectacle.

Last week, MAMAMOO's Wheein joined as a special guest for the Korean team, choosing Crush's 'Beautiful' from the drama 'Goblin'. Her performance filled the studio with cheers, reaffirming her status as the 'ear girlfriend'. Jeong Ji-so couldn't take her eyes off Wheein, and Kangnam remarked, "It feels like being in a drama." KENJI03 also praised her, exclaiming "Amazing!" in Korean, which he learned on the spot. Previously, Jeong Ji-so had been a topic of discussion among netizens for her changed appearance.

Wheein took on the challenge of her first J-pop live performance with Onitsuka Chihiro's 'Moonlight' in the captivating 'Street Song' segment of 'Change Street'. Her stable Japanese pronunciation and emotional delivery left the studio in awe once again, with KENJI03, Matsuda Manager, and Kangnam all agreeing that her Japanese pronunciation was perfect.

The Japanese team's performance also left a deep impression. Takaya Kawasaki evoked deep emotions with Off Course's 'Sayonara', moving not only the audience but also Matsuda Manager to tears. MC Shin Dong-yup confessed, "Through 'Change Street', I've become a fan of Takaya Kawasaki."

May J. chose Mika Nakashima's 'Snow Flower', a beloved song in both Korea and Japan, transforming the atmosphere with a wintery feel and earning praise from Kangnam as a "perfect hexagonal singer."

Additionally, Koda Kumi united the audience and studio with Bubblegum Brothers' 'WON'T BE LONG', leading to a chorus and dance, and later delivered the first encore performance on 'Change Street' with her career-defining ballad hit 'Love Song'. Her emotionally charged performance moved her husband KENJI03 and the audience to tears, leaving a lasting impact.

At the end of the broadcast, the lineup for the third Korean and Japanese busking teams was revealed, following the performances of the second teams from episodes 5 to 8. The announcement of the 'youngest team', armed with youthful energy, is set to heighten anticipation.

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