The Kakao Creation Foundation offers an immersive and inspiring experience for future music creators.
Kakao Entertainment (co-led by Kwon Ki-soo and Jang Yoon-jung) and the Kakao Creation Foundation will host the second music industry-focused conference, “11th Grow Up Talk & Talk,” on July 25 at Dreamplus Gangnam in Seoul.
The “Grow Up Talk & Talk” program is a series of free, in-person professional talks open to all aspiring creators and individuals interested in the cultural industry. For its 11th edition, the event is organized in partnership with KOMCA (the Korea Music Copyright Association) and will welcome around 100 attendees.
This edition will feature prominent figures from the K-pop scene, including:
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Jo Yoon Kyung, an iconic K-pop lyricist,
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Min Yeon Jae, known for her emotionally resonant ballads,
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And Kiggen, a successful producer and former member of the group Phantom.
At the previous music-focused conference held on April 25 (the 8th edition), artists Brother Su, DOKO, and music director Park Sung-il captivated the audience with their stories, generating strong enthusiasm among emerging creators.
K-pop Icons Take the Stage as Guest Speakers
Jo Yoon Kyung has penned lyrics for numerous iconic tracks such as:
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“Sherlock” by SHINee, “PARTY” by Girls’ Generation,
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“Russian roulette” and “Rookie” by Red Velvet,
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“Call me baby,” “Love Shot” by EXO,
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“Chewing gum” by NCT DREAM, and “Love 119” by RIIZE.
She now collaborates with a wide range of artists, from THE BOYZ to KWON EUNBI and KISS OF LIFE, extending her influence beyond the SM Entertainment label.
Min Yeon Jae, known for her heartfelt and sensitive lyrics, has written:
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“Some” (Soyou & Junggigo),
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“The reason I became a singer” (Shin Yong-jae),
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“Love, ing” (Ben),
as well as songs for groups like SHINee and EXO. Active since 2008, she is now a leading lyricist in the K-pop industry.
Kiggen, a veteran producer and former member of the hip-hop group PHANTOM, has worked with numerous artists including SEVENTEEN, ASTRO, WANNA ONE, VERBAL JINT, and KIM JIN PYO. With his background in hip-hop, indie, and R&B, he will offer practical advice and inspiration to attendees.
Ongoing Support for Independent Artists
The Kakao Creation Foundation, established by Kakao Entertainment under the supervision of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, aims to build a healthy ecosystem with creators. Since February 2023, it has supported initiatives like TrackZero, a project promoting indie music on Melon. The foundation also sponsors the Live Club Day festival in Hongdae and has helped indie artists gain access to major stages such as the DMZ Peace Train Music Festival and the Asian Pop Festival since June 2024.
Journalist: Shawn
Translator: Shawn
Source: Kakao Entertainment
