Paradise to Host Apopfe in May... Onuki Taeko to Make First Visit to Korea

Asian Pop Festival at Paradise City in Yeongjongdo
Performances on May 30-31...Sugar Babe Vocalist to Visit Korea

The Paradise Cultural Foundation announced on the 26th that it will hold the “Asian Pop Festival 2026” (Apopfe) at Paradise City in Yeongjongdo, Incheon, from May 30 to 31.

Apopfe is regarded as the only festival in Korea that presents contemporary music emerging from cities across Asia through a consistent curatorial taste. This year’s event will feature the first-ever performance in Korea by Onuki Taeko, the vocalist of “Sugar Babe,” the band that gave birth to “city pop” in the history of Japanese popular music.

Stage at the 'Asian Pop Festival' held last year at Paradise City in Yeongjongdo, Incheon. Provided by Paradise

In addition, representing Korean bands, the Kim Changwan Band will take the stage. Noise Garden, a regular fixture on the list of the 100 greatest Korean popular music albums, will also hold a special concert celebrating the 30th anniversary of its first album. Also joining the lineup are Quruli, a leading name in Japanese indie rock returning to Korea for the first time in 15 years, and Hasegawa Hakushi, known for his genius sensibilities.

Among the rising acts set to perform alongside these masters are “Lidoor” from Korea and “YONLAPA” from Thailand, both currently at the forefront of their respective band scenes, as well as “Someshiit,” an indie hip-hop icon from Taiwan. Emerging artists highlighted by the Korean Music Awards, such as Peach Truck Hijackers, Woo Heejun, Lakune Rama, and Chuda Hye Charges, together with veteran bands Crying Nut and Broccoli You Too, will form a solid bridge between the veterans and the newcomers.

During the festival period, late-night operations have also been confirmed for “Cimer,” the resort’s spa facility. Guests who purchase a 2-day pass can make advance reservations at a special price. At “Plaza,” the indoor square next to the concert venue, a 10% discount will be offered on food and beverage (F&B) purchases.

General ticket sales for Apopfe 2026 are currently underway through NOL Interpark Ticket. A representative from the Paradise Cultural Foundation said, “The season of Apopfe, a stay-type emotional festival where romance and relaxation coexist, has begun,” adding, “We aim not for a simple lineup of performances, but to foster active exchanges in the current Asian music market.”