Why Do Elderly South Koreans Listen to Japanese Enka-Inspired Music?

The musical preferences of elderly South Koreans often revolve around a specific genre with Japanese roots, known as Enka. This phenomenon can be attributed to various cultural and historical factors that have shaped their musical tastes over the decades.

Historical Influence

During the early to mid-20th century, Japan's colonial rule over Korea from 1910 to 1945 introduced various aspects of Japanese culture, including music. Many older Koreans grew up listening to Japanese songs, which have left a lasting impact on their musical preferences. One notable Japanese composer is Masao Koga, whose work played a significant role during this period. The economic and political strength of Japan at that time contributed to the widespread availability and popularity of Japanese records. This exposure to Japanese music, particularly through popular genres like Enka, left a profound imprint on the music landscape of South Korea.

Emotional Themes

Enka and similar Korean genres often share themes of love, nostalgia, and longing. These emotional resonances appeal to many elderly listeners who may relate to the sentiments expressed in the music. The melody and lyrics of Enka often evoke a sense of warmth and familiarity, making it a cherished part of their cultural heritage.

Cultural Exchange

After the normalization of relations between South Korea and Japan in the 1990s, there has been a revival of interest in Japanese culture, including music. This cultural exchange has allowed for the appreciation of similar musical styles. For instance, Lee Mi-ja, one of Korea's most famous and oldest Trot singers, rose to prominence in the late 1950s and early 1960s, singing in the Korean language. However, her style and techniques are strongly influenced by the Japanese pop music (Ryūkōka) that was prevalent during the Japanese occupation of Korea.

Melodic Structure and Nostalgia

The melodic and lyrical structures of Enka and Korean ballads, such as Trot, often exhibit similarities, making it easier for listeners to appreciate both genres. The slow tempos and expressive vocals are particularly appealing to older audiences. For many elderly individuals, music serves as a powerful trigger for memories. Listening to songs reminiscent of their youth can evoke nostalgia and a deeper connection to their past.

Evolution of Korean Pop-Music: Trot and Ryūkōka

While many tend to associate Korean pop-music, known as Trot, with Japanese Enka, there is, in fact, a broader context. From the late 1920s to the 1980s, the Korean pop-music genre, Trot, emerged with a distinct identity, yet it was heavily influenced by the wider genre of Ryūkōka, which spanned Japan and its occupied territories, including Korea. Trot, like Enka, shares many similarities in melody, tempo, and lyrical content, making it easier for audiences to connect with these genres.

The differences lie in the presentation and style: Enka was typically performed by Japanese women in traditional kimonos, while Trot was performed by Korean women in traditional Hanboks, though both underwent changes in dress during the 1970s and 1980s. Notable figures like Keiko Fuji, an influential Japanese Enka singer, and Lee Mi-ja, a renowned Korean Trot singer, exemplify the blending of cultural elements within these genres.

Overall, the historical context, emotional appeal, and cultural exchange contribute to the enduring preference for music akin to Enka among elderly South Koreans. This blend of cultural influences has left a lasting legacy on the music industry, making it a cherished part of their cultural heritage.