1. Biography
- Artist Name:
- Real name: Park Jae-sang
- Stage name: Psy
- Date of birth: 31 December 1977
- Country of Origin: South Korea (Gangnam District, Seoul)
- Field of activity: rapper, songwriter, record producer, entertainment manager
- Notable for: Global hit “Gangnam Style”, founder of P Nation, unconventional K-pop image
- SNS:
- Instagram: @42psy42
- X: @psy_oppa
2. Early life and context
Born into a wealthy family in Seoul’s Gangnam District, Psy was known as a class clown during his school years at Banpo Elementary and Middle School and Sehwa High School. His father, Park Won-Ho, is the executive chairman of DI Corporation, while his mother, Kim Young-hee, owns several restaurants in Gangnam. His passion for music was born at the age of 15 after seeing Queen’s performance of “Bohemian Rhapsody” at Wembley Stadium on television.
3. Career
Psy’s journey began at Boston University and Berklee College of Music, although he left both to pursue music in South Korea. He debuted in 2001 with “Psy from the Psycho World!” and gained national recognition for his unique style and controversial performances. His breakthrough came in 2012 with “Gangnam Style,” which became the first YouTube video to reach 1 billion views. After eight successful years with YG Entertainment (2010-2018), he founded P Nation in 2019, establishing himself as a successful entertainment executive while continuing his music career.
4. Style and influence
Known for his humorous performances and unconventional approach to K-pop, Psy’s style breaks from the traditional idol image. His music combines catchy melodies with social commentary, often incorporating comedy and satire. As a performer, he is recognized for his energetic stage presence and ability to create viral dance moves. His influence extends beyond music as he has helped connect Korean popular culture with global audiences.
5. Personal life/dating news
Psy married Yoo Hye-yeon, a cello major at Yonsei University, in 2006 after dating for three and a half years. They have twin daughters. He has been open about his personal struggles, including his drinking habits, which he discussed in a 2013 interview with the Sunday Times.
6. Scandals/Controversies
His career has faced several controversies, including a marijuana possession incident in 2001 that led to a short prison sentence. He also faced criticism for his anti-American performances in 2002 and 2004, for which he later apologized. The controversy resurfaced in 2012 but had no significant impact on his global popularity.
7. Results and awards
Psy’s achievements include numerous Guinness World Records for “Gangnam Style” and “Gentleman”. He became the first K-pop artist to make a significant breakthrough in the Western music industry and received the Okgwan Order (Order of Cultural Merit 4th Grade) from the Ministry of Culture of South Korea. He was also the first K-pop artist Asian soloist to surpass 10 million YouTube subscribers, earning a Diamond Play Button in 2017. His influence as an entertainment executive continues through P Nation, which has signed and developed numerous successful artists.
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