Everyone knows K-pop idols, but few are aware of an alternative idol culture thriving in Korea. Known as "underground idols," these performers take the stage in intimate venues in venues around Sinchon, Hongdae and Hapjeong, far from the glitz and glamour of mainstream media. Despite their lower profiles, they have cultivated devoted followings. Some underground idols are former K-pop trainees who have chosen a different artistic path, while others are drawn purely by their passion for performance.
"We earn enough to make a living without the backing of a major agency," Niko, a member of Sekakomo, one of Korea's most prominent underground idol groups, told the Howdy Korea team ahead of a group performance. In Korea, an estimated 100 underground idol groups exist — a notable figure given the approximately 300 K-pop groups currently active. Performing as many as 20 times a month, most underground idols are driven by their deep love for music and stage presence, according to Moya, another member of Sekakomo.
Among Sekakomo's most enigmatic figures is Z:KAN, a male member who stands silently alongside his two female bandmates. Cloaked in white robes and a cape, he exudes an air of mystery. However, it is his full-face helmet, obscuring his identity, that draws the most attention. Throughout our interview, he remained silent, prompting curiosity and speculation. His bandmates assured us that even they had never heard his voice. Z:KAN, who serves as the group's DJ, has deliberately chosen to remain anonymous. His decision underscores the freedom and artistic autonomy that underground idols enjoy, in stark contrast to the highly controlled image of mainstream K-pop idols.
"I was interested in DJing and found an opportunity to perform at underground idol venues," Z:KAN communicated through his iPad, his primary means of interaction. "I learned DJing as part of Sekakomo, and though my decision to stay silent was initially challenging, I've come to embrace it. I do this for my passion for music."
Later that evening, the HowdyKorea team followed Sekakomo to Octavarium, an underground performance space in the heart of Hapjeong. Fans lined the narrow staircase leading to the venue, their anticipation undeterred by the chilly weather. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement.
"I only discovered underground idols six months ago," one fan said before the performance, "but I've memorized all their songs and most of their dance moves."
Contrary to the stereotype that underground idol enthusiasts fit the typical "otaku" mold, she defied expectations. In her early 20s, she sported platinum blonde hair and a baggy T-shirt purchased from Z:KAN's birthday event.
When asked to demonstrate her knowledge of dance moves, her initial shyness disappeared. As the music started, she moved in flawless synchronization with the idols' choreography. This level of engagement is common among underground idol fans. Unlike K-pop concerts, which feature a single group performing an extended setlist, underground idol events take on a festival-like atmosphere, with multiple groups taking the stage one after another. Fans don't merely watch; they actively participate, singing, dancing, and executing synchronized "mix calls"—a form of cheering reminiscent of mosh pits at rock concerts.
Following the high-energy performance, the idol groups gathered for "Mulpan," an intimate merchandise sale and fan meeting. For approximately 30,000 won per member, fans could take a Polaroid photo with their favorite idol. As the members sign and decorate the photo, fans have the opportunity to engage in approximately two minutes of conversation with the members.
The atmosphere during Mulpan was intimate yet lively, with fans exchanging warm words with the idols, who responded with familiar camaraderie. Frequent interactions have fostered strong connections between idols and their fans — something rarely attainable in mainstream K-pop, where interactions often require significant financial investment.
When asked about their most memorable fan encounters, Niko's face lit up.
"We toured Japan a few months ago, and some fans even boarded the same flight as us just to support our shows. It gave me so much strength and encouragement."
Moya chimed in, "One fan didn't speak Japanese and got lost, wandering the streets for hours. But they still made it to our performance, and it meant the world to us. We even flew back to Korea together."
While underground idols may lack the global visibility of their mainstream counterparts, their unwavering dedication and deeply engaged fan community set them apart. As the underground idol movement continues to grow, it offers a compelling alternative to the polished, highly commercialized world of K-pop — proving that authenticity and passion resonate just as powerfully as fame and fortune.