Synopsis
The Kpopcast is a kpop podcast. The weekly program features reviews of the latest kpop releases, within trends within the genre, and what it means to be a kpop fan in the United States. Recurring hosts Soupermatic, Stephanie and DJ Peter Lo engage and spotlight listeners who tweet @TheKpopcast.
Episodes
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SEVENTEEN Mingyu x S.Coups 'Pretty Woman' Reaction
09/10/2025 Duration: 36minSummaryIn this episode of the Kpopcast, hosts Stephanie and PD-Nim discuss Seventeen's latest comeback with 'Pretty Woman' and celebrate the Chuseok holiday. They share their hit replays, including Crush's new track Frequency and the boy group POW. The conversation delves into the significance of Chuseok, its traditions, and how K-Pop fans can engage with the holiday. The hosts also do a live reaction to and analyze the themes and production of Seventeen's new release, exploring the meaning behind '5-4-3 Pretty Woman.'Chapters00:00Celebrating Seventeen's Comeback and Chuseok06:31Exploring Crush's New Album and Creative Process12:25Introducing the New Group Pow and Their Evolution17:38Understanding Chuseok: Traditions and Celebrations21:44Celebrating Chuseok and Family Connections22:43K-Pop Releases During Chuseok23:44Reacting to '5-4-3 Pretty Woman'28:59Exploring the Music Video's Themes32:04The Impact of Nostalgia in K-Pop34:34Understanding '5-4-3' in the Song TitleTakeawaysSeventeen's comeback 'Pretty Woman
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EXO Comeback Predictions, Taemin at Coachella, HITGS & Gwang Il Jo Comebacks
24/09/2025 Duration: 35minIn this episode of the Kpopcast, hosts Stephanie and Pd-nim discuss the latest comebacks in the K-Pop scene, including EXO's anticipated return and Taemin's new single 'Veil'. They explore the monster rookie groups of 2025, and the impact of military service, geo-political tensions between China and Korea, and EXO-CBX's Lawsuit settlement with SM Ent. The conversation also highlights Kai's recent tour and his sexiest stage yet in Mexico City.Join the Kpopcast Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/kpopcast/shared_invite/zt-93kzxcv6-YNej2QkyY6vaPnhEQJxk0AChip in for editing: https://ko-fi.com/thekpopcast HIT REPLAYS:Jo Gwangil - TONGUE https://youtu.be/t7DbgcQAmBoHITGS - Aha! https://youtu.be/1XOmTvPWQSs?siChapters00:00K-Pop Comebacks and Rookies of 202504:44Hit Replays: K-Pop Song Recommendations07:33Rookie Groups of 2025: Trends and Insights15:15Taemin's Return: Exploring His New Single 'Veil'18:49Anticipation for Taemin at Coachella22:01EXO's Return from Military Service25:05The Lore of EXO and Their Comeback
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CORTIS Album Review, NCT Haechan debut, Aespa, IVE, Monsta X Comebacks
10/09/2025 Duration: 56minIn this episode of the Kpopcast, the hosts Stephanie, PD-nim, and special guest Todd Inoue (SF Chronicle Reporter & more!) discuss the latest happenings in the K-Pop world, including hit replays from Ive, Moon Soojin, and Monsta X. They also dive into a critical review of the K-Popped show featuring Psy and Megan Thee Stallion, sharing insights on its editing and content. The conversation shifts to updates from SM Entertainment, focusing on Aespa's comeback "Rich Man" and Haechan's solo debut, "CRZY". In this episode, the hosts dive into the latest album from K-Pop group CORTIS, discussing their new music video, FaSHiON, and the reception of their sound in the K-Rap scene. They explore cultural representation in K-Pop, the significance of CORTIS working with American hip hop artists like Teezo Touchdown and Juicy J, and analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the album's tracks. The conversation wraps up with reflections on the future of CORTIS and their potential impact on the K-Pop landscape.Chapters00:
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K-Popped: Full Show Review
05/09/2025 Duration: 01h10minIn this episode of the Kpopcast, hosts Stephanie and Peter dive into the vibrant world of "K-Popped," a groundbreaking show hosted by PSY and Megan thee Stallion that bridges generations and cultures. Join us as we explore the dynamic collaborations between Western and K-Pop artists, featuring iconic performances by ATEEZ, J Balvin, Kylie Minogue, TLC, Boyz II Men, the Spice Girls, STAYC, BlackSwan, Patti LaBelle, Kiss of Life, Eve, J01, and more! We dive deep into the show's highlight moments, times where the production missed the mark, and yes, that controversial and awkward moment between ATEEZ and J Balvin! Tune in for a deep dive into the essence of K-Pop and its global impact, with reflections on standout performances and the show's cultural significance.Follow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thekpopcastJoin the Kpopcast Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/kpopcast/shared_invite/zt-93kzxcv6-YNej2QkyY6vaPnhEQJxk0AChip in for editing: https://ko-fi.com/thekpopcastWatch KPOPPED - App
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CORTIS GO Debut Reaction
20/08/2025 Duration: 39minSummaryIn this episode of the Kpopcast, hosts Stephanie and PD-nim discuss the latest happenings in the K-Pop world, focusing on the debut of HYBE's new boy group CORTIS, the return of Monsta X, and the emergence of other boy groups like idntt. They explore the trends in K-Pop, the significance of fan involvement, and the production aspects of the new music. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by the industry, including controversies surrounding HYBE's management.Chapters00:00Introduction to CORTIS and K-Pop Dynamics00:42Hit Replays and New Boy Groups05:28Monsta X's Return and Evolution08:48Debut of CORTIS and Reaction to 'Go'14:12Introducing Cortis: Big Hit's Newest Boy Group17:03Cortis' Debut and Historical Context18:37Cortis' Unique Identity and Target Audience20:22Musical Style and Influences22:12Cortis' Creative Involvement and Authenticity26:01Production Credits and Collaborations28:39Skepticism Towards Idol Involvement31:44Cortis' Performance and Visuals35:55Final Thoughts on Cortis'
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Did K-Beauty Embrace Diversity at KCON 2025?
16/08/2025 Duration: 01h03minJoin us on this episode of the Kpopcast as we explore the vibrant world of K-Beauty at KCON, focusing on the themes of inclusivity and diversity. Discover how Korean beauty brands are evolving to embrace a wider range of skin tones and beauty standards, and what this means for representation in K-Pop. With insights from Theresa of "It's a K-Pop Thing," we delve into the progress and challenges in making K-Beauty accessible to all. Tune in for an engaging discussion on the intersection of beauty, culture, and identity. #KBeauty #Inclusivity #Diversity #KPop Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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International Kpop Survival Shows
13/08/2025 Duration: 51minIn this episode of the K-Pop cast, hosts Stephanie and PD-nim discuss the latest trends in K-Pop survival shows: World of Street Woman Fighter, Boys II Planet, and K-Popped. The conversation reflects on the challenges and opportunities presented, emphasizing the need for balance between international appeal and maintaining the essence of K-Pop. They also share kpop hit replays from Loco and WayV!Join the Kpopcast Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/kpopcast/shared_invite/zt-93kzxcv6-YNej2QkyY6vaPnhEQJxk0AChip in for editing: https://ko-fi.com/thekpopcast HIT REPLAYS:로꼬 (Loco) - No where (Official Video) ft. Feby Putri https://youtu.be/6VL3hwELh_c?si=nBwb23f6OA97CbnZ WayV _ BIG BANDS (Korean Ver.) | 1theKILLPO | 원더킬포 | 퍼포먼스 | Performance | 4K | 쿤 텐 샤오쥔 헨드리 양양 https://youtu.be/o9DPRfIx5RU?si=Zcmbmefo5g6DDvRt Chapters00:00 K-Pop Survival Shows Overview05:40 Hit Replays: Loco and WayV11:40 International Focus in K-Pop Survival Shows18:39 Cultural Representation and Tensions25:13 The Future of K-Pop and Inte
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Genius Korea 5th Anniversary Interview
29/07/2025 Duration: 01h33minIn this episode, we sit down with Genius Korea's Leader Unit
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BlackPink Jump Reaction, AI vs. CGI?
18/07/2025 Duration: 46minIn this episode, the hosts discuss 'Jump' the long-awaited comeback of BLACKPINK after three years! They dive into the visuals, production choices, the impact of AI in music videos and speculate on the future direction of BLACKPINK as they approach their 10-year anniversary. They also share Hit Replays From TWICE, BABYMONSTER & Yung Raja x Jay ParkJoin the Kpopcast Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/kpopcast/shared_invite/zt-93kzxcv6-YNej2QkyY6vaPnhEQJxk0AChip in for editing: https://ko-fi.com/thekpopcast HIT REPLAYS:BABYMONSTER - ‘HOT SAUCE’ M/V https://youtu.be/xn8mQqz2xmM?si=kPledLm0LbCJBi98 Yung Raja x Jay Park ‘missed call’ https://youtu.be/spDokk5zl-0?si=7XpjEOuYL5-S6E2v BATTITUDE (NAYEON, JEONGYEON, MOMO, MINA) https://youtu.be/TOic7n-CDd4?si=aTfzQTwPr0sMl19p Chapters00:00 Introduction to K-Pop Hits00:29 BABYMONSTER03:33 Jay Park x Young Raja05:56 TWICE's New Era and Attitude10:08 BLACKPINK Deep Dive11:49 Live Reaction to BLACKPINK's 'Jump'17:36 Comparative Discussion: 'Jump' vs. P
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BIBI Concert Review 2025
07/07/2025 Duration: 01h02minIn this episode, the Kpopcast reviews Bibi's 2025 Eve Tour in Oakland, Ca. Discussing their excitement for her first US tour, highlighting Bibi's dynamic personality, audience interaction and the different styles of sex appeal presented. While also addressing mixed feelings about the concert's missed opportunities and overall production quality.Join the Kpopcast Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/kpopcast/shared_invite/zt-93kzxcv6-YNej2QkyY6vaPnhEQJxk0AChip in for editing: https://ko-fi.com/thekpopcastChapters00:00 Introduction to Bibi's Eve Concert Tour02:27 Bibi: The Artist and Her Unique Style05:14 Concert Experience: Initial Impressions08:13 Audience Interaction and Performance Dynamics11:10 Flow and Structure of the Concert13:46 Musical Quality and Acoustics16:56 Bibi's Authenticity and Stage Presence20:02 Final Thoughts on the Concert Experience24:39 Bibi's Concert Experience: A Wholesome Interaction27:53 Performance Flow and Audience Engagement29:14 Thematic Depth and Missed Opportunities31:09 Dancers and
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ENHYPEN Are Fallen Angels in Bad Desire
25/06/2025 Duration: 48minIn this episode of the K-Pop Cast, the hosts review Enhypen's "Bad Desire". They discuss the evolving trends in K-Pop, the impact of military enlistment on artists, and the significance of music videos in conveying concepts. The conversation also touches on the nostalgia of early 2000s sounds and the challenges of creating memorable choreography in a fast-paced industry. Join the Kpopcast Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/kpopcast/shared_invite/zt-93kzxcv6-YNej2QkyY6vaPnhEQJxk0AChip in for editing: https://ko-fi.com/thekpopcast [REVIEW] ENHYPEN Explores Their Darkest Fantasy Yet with ‘DESIRE: UNLEASH’ Containing Moments of Excellence | Genius https://genius.com/discussions/499192-Review-enhypen-explores-their-darkest-fantasy-yet-with-desire-unleash-containing-moments-of-excellence HIT REPLAYS:MEOVV(미야오) - ‘HANDS UP’ M/V https://youtu.be/sL0pCS6K9bc?si=WkbTrnSvGsRYJDaY USPEER (유스피어) 'ZOOM' MV https://youtu.be/7WSmAo7kSoo?si=xlQp-pHbq4801WZO JAEHYUN 재현 'Can't Get You' (Official Aud
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Kpop Demon Hunters Netflix Review & Discussion
23/06/2025 Duration: 01h12minThe Kpopcast crew dives deep into Netflix's animated hit "Kpop Demon Hunters" - and they're completely obsessed! Join DJ Peter Lo, Syed, Virginia, and PD Nim as they break down everything from the incredible soundtrack (which they argue is better than 90% of actual K-pop) to the spot-on cultural references that prove the creators really knew their stuff. They discuss the film's authentic portrayal of fan culture, the clever metaphors about industry exploitation, hilarious K-drama tropes, and why this movie works for both hardcore K-pop stans and complete newcomers. Plus: thoughts on sequel potential, the genius of naming conventions, and why "Golden" deserves an Oscar. Spoilers included - watch the movie first!Join the Kpopcast Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/kpopcast/sha...Chip in for editing: https://ko-fi.com/thekpopcastChapters00:00 Intro & First Reactions05:25 Development & Concept Art Changes10:05 Soundtrack Breakdown19:20 K-pop Song Placements26:29 Cultural Accuracy & References36:43 Fan Cu
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Was Red Velvet Irene & Seulgi TILT Worth the Wait?
03/06/2025 Duration: 41minIn this episode of the, the hosts review the highly anticipated comeback of Red Velvet's Irene and Seulgi with their new song 'Tilt' diving into the significance of sensuality and in kpop music videos, and the challenges faced by veteran groups in the current industry landscape. They also discuss new music from Kim Jaejoong, SHINee, and independent artist Hersh feat JUSTHIS.Join the Kpopcast Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/kpopcast/shared_invite/zt-93kzxcv6-YNej2QkyY6vaPnhEQJxk0AChip in for editing: https://ko-fi.com/thekpopcast HIT REPLAYS:김재중(KIM JAE JOONG) 'ROCK STAR' MV https://youtu.be/UrZXzp2t91M?si=Heg2CJV62lvnU2nE Hersh - Falling Into You (Feat. JUSTHIS) https://youtu.be/hGgCiS2T72o?si=Bb3AI7IfrWNNgNId SHINee 샤이니 'Poet | Artist' MV https://youtu.be/QF6P6BSPDRw?si=wA-TU0IFqdv-aZw1 Chapters00:00 Introduction to K-Pop Cast and Hit Replays03:46 Spotlight on Kim Jaejoong: A K-Pop Legend09:41 Exploring Independent Artists: Hirsch and Justice14:34 SHINee's Comeback: Rememberin
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Seventeen Drops Epic Happy Burstday Album Preview
23/05/2025 Duration: 36minIn this episode of the, the hosts discuss the latest comebacks and highlight medleys from Seventeen, Riize, Red Velvet, Baekhyun and Monsta X. They explore the musical styles, emotional themes, and innovative approaches to highlight medleys, as well as the controversies surrounding certain concepts. Join the Kpopcast Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/kpopcast/shared_invite/zt-93kzxcv6-YNej2QkyY6vaPnhEQJxk0AChip in for editing: https://ko-fi.com/thekpopcast HIT REPLAYS:Baekhyun ‘No Problem’ https://youtu.be/aT-jUyik8yI?si=7X1ZLgxNapRO_zEt RIIZE 라이즈 'Fly Up' MV https://youtu.be/vLUtHODdLzk?si=T9trz9vqJDyHrvDH Chapters00:00 Introduction to K-Pop Highlights04:01 Baekhyun's Comeback and Musical Style07:52 RYSE's New Album and Emotional Themes10:53 Seventeen's Highlight Medley and Album Insights15:44 Innovations in K-Pop Highlight Medleys20:47 Red Velvet's Controversial Concepts27:29 Monsta X's Re-recorded Tracks and Future Prospects Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Identity Crisis? G-idle Rebrand and Comeback ‘Girlfriend
19/05/2025 Duration: 43minIn this episode the hosts discuss the rebranding of G-Idle to simply 'I-dle' and their new song 'Girlfriend'. They explore the implications of the name change, the themes presented in the music video, and the reactions from fans. The conversation also touches on the departure of member Soojin and how it has affected the group, as well as comparisons to other K-Pop groups and I-dle’s Future in the industry.Join the Kpopcast Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/kpopcast/shared_invite/zt-93kzxcv6-YNej2QkyY6vaPnhEQJxk0AChip in for editing: https://ko-fi.com/thekpopcastChapters00:00 Intro02:10 The Significance of the Name Change05:08 Music Video Reaction: Girlfriend06:58 Exploring Lyrics and Themes09:51 Discussion on Provocative Content13:02 Analyzing the Use of Language15:37 The Shift from 'I' to 'We' in Identity18:37 Conclusion and Future Directions19:31 The Impact of Soojin's Departure22:23 Re-recording Controversies in K-Pop27:23 Fan Reactions to Rebranding and Erasure31:38 The Future of G-Idle and Their Rebranding
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Kpop at the 2025 MET GALA
09/05/2025 Duration: 01h11minIn this episode of the, the hosts share their hit replays of the week & K-pop's presence at the 2025 Met Gala. The conversation highlights the intersection of K-Pop and Black Dandyism, exploring their fashion choices and the cultural significance behind them, cultural appropriation, and the future of K-Pop idols in the global fashion scene.Join the Kpopcast Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/kpopcast/shared_invite/zt-93kzxcv6-YNej2QkyY6vaPnhEQJxk0AChip in for editing: https://ko-fi.com/thekpopcast HIT REPLAYS:ENHYPEN (엔하이픈) 'Loose' Official Lyric Video https://youtu.be/qr4oH_06IZM?si=dvTYhe91FibmzIZN Toshinobu Kubota - Dance If You Want It (1988) https://youtu.be/ulCqwSjQ-t4?si=PavFWryVGDj1qwhL LATATA (i-dle ver.) (LATATA (i-dle ver.)) https://youtu.be/rxlQ5OgscMo?si=CwW_r2Wumoh0T7Gi Chapters00:00 Intro00:35 Enhypen Hit Replay03:49 Toshinobu Kubota Hit Replay07:55 I-dle Hit Replay12:36 Deep Dive into the 2025 Met Gala14:30 Expectations Going Into The Event17:41 Asian Representation at the
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"Gnarly" is actually Genius
03/05/2025 Duration: 47minIn this episode, Peter and Stephanie dive deep into Katseye and their controversial comeback song, 'Gnarly.' They discuss the group's formation, their identity as a global girl group, and the polarizing reactions to their music video. The conversation explores themes of cultural appropriation, the impact of lyrics, and the evolving landscape of K-pop, all while analyzing the song's production and fan reception. The hosts reflect on their initial reactions, the influence of Alice's original concept, and the broader implications of the song within the K-pop industry.Join the Kpopcast Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/kpopcast/shared_invite/zt-93kzxcv6-YNej2QkyY6vaPnhEQJxk0AChip in for editing: https://ko-fi.com/thekpopcast Chapters00:00 Introduction to Cat's Eye and Their Comeback02:23 The Global Girl Group Phenomenon05:22 Reaction to 'Gnarly' and Its Polarizing Nature08:14 Initial Reactions and Cultural Commentary11:06 The Impact of Lyrics and Cultural Expectations13:40 The Role of Performance and Audience Recep
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The Rise of Queer Visibility in 2025 Kpop
01/05/2025 Duration: 43minIn this episode of the K-Pop cast, the hosts discuss the significant rise of queer visibility in K-Pop, focusing on recent coming out stories from idols like Bain (Just B) and Lara (Katseye). They explore the evolving cultural shift towards acceptance and representation of LGBTQ identities within the industry, contrasting the experiences of idols in Western countries versus their home countries & the hope for a more inclusive future for idols and fans alike.Join the Kpopcast Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/kpopcast/shared_invite/zt-93kzxcv6-YNej2QkyY6vaPnhEQJxk0AChip in for editing: https://ko-fi.com/thekpopcast HIT REPLAYS:CLOSE YOUR EYES ‘To The Woods’ Performance Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJqk6f4VGgY&ab_channel=CLOSEYOUREYES JENNIE, Doechii - ExtraL (Official Video) https://youtu.be/eWAdpUyzCkI?si=0ui57ORFn0kcZOzT KiiiKiii 키키 'GROUNDWORK' MV https://youtu.be/8NpCghW0Hkw?si=W-WcPYQLipcACejOChapters00:00 Intro02:21 Jennie Doechii Hit Replay08:08 Close Your Eyse Hit Replay11
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Kpop at Coachella 2025 & KAI Wait On Me Album Review
25/04/2025 Duration: 01h03minIn this episode, the hosts dive into EXO Kai's recent comeback album 'Wait On Me' & K-Pop idol presence at Coachella 2025. The conversation highlights K-Pop's growing acceptance in mainstream music culture and the need for innovative performances to secure its future.Join the Kpopcast Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/kpopcast/shared_invite/zt-93kzxcv6-YNej2QkyY6vaPnhEQJxk0AChip in for editing: https://ko-fi.com/thekpopcast HIT REPLAYS:KAI 카이 'Walls Don't Talk' MV https://youtu.be/qTwJH5M7zfE?si=oZRlvB2LhaVTRSJz KAI 카이 'Wait On Me' MV https://youtu.be/JLqXeMabsEQ?si=5XjcDMCfN4VFKn1J KAI 카이 Ridin' https://youtu.be/vAOs-NRnrMo?si=2AyOjxfZVULQa4pP00:00 Intro03:03 Hit Replays: Kai's Comeback05:58 Analyzing Kai's Music Video and Choreography09:26 K-Pop's Evolution at Coachella 202512:27 Production Quality in K-Pop Performances15:23 K-Pop's Mainstream Presence at Coachella22:47 The Budgeting Behind K-Pop Performances25:24 Cultural Impact and Strategic Promotions27:13 Reimagining Performances at Coa
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NCT Mark 1999 Album Review
21/04/2025 Duration: 46minIn this episode of the K-Pop cast, hosts Stephanie and PD-nim dive into the latest K-Pop releases, focusing on NCT's Mark Lee and his debut solo album 'First Fruit'. They discuss hit replays from XG and From20, analyze the themes and personal reflections in Mark's music, and react to the music video for his title track '1999'. The conversation also touches on cultural appropriation, artistic growth, and the future prospects for Mark Lee in the K-Pop industry.Join the Kpopcast Slack: https://join.slack.com/t/kpopcast/shared_invite/zt-93kzxcv6-YNej2QkyY6vaPnhEQJxk0AChip in for editing: https://ko-fi.com/thekpopcast HIT REPLAYS:XG - IN THE RAIN (Official Music Video) https://youtu.be/BydbhAzmAzg?si=Q7_vuaqAdHSs3F3d from20(프롬트웬티) - Eye Candy MV https://youtu.be/0w_GymG3kbc?si=JjpCox2psVDkmX0SChapters00:00 Introduction to NCT's Mark and Hit Replays08:41 Deep Dive into Mark Lee's First Solo Album14:46 Reacting to the Music Video '1999'21:45 Themes and Analysis of '1999'23:53 Mark Lee: The Multifaceted Art