Korea's Singing Culture

Korean pop sensation, Rain

Just how important is a good singing voice, in Korea? Apparently, very.

When I went to Min's University party, Saturday night, he expressed how important singing ability is. He belongs to a music club, and they rented out a restaurant at which to perform. The seniors coached the juniors, whose singing and guitar playing was pretty painful.

Many of the students' parents traveled far to watch the massacre of Korean and English pop songs. I asked Min, "do parents really care about their child's voice?" Of course, he said. "If they sing well, they can be popular. They can easily attract a girl, and socialize well at work."

Young people use norebang to seduce potential mates, and business men congregate over beer, in karaoke rooms.

Most teenagers hit the microphone with friends at least once a week. I was fairly uncomfortable when first shoved into the karaoke limelight, but I see how it could become an addictive past time, even if you have a limited range, like I do.

What's better than expressing emotions through song, under a turning disco ball. Plus, it's a good excuse to hear your guilty favorites. Come on, you know you have a soft spot in your heart for the Spice Girls.