Jeju’s South Carnival to Release New Song “Molteuli” Today at Noon
Jeju’s seven-member band, South Carnival, is gearing up for the release of their latest single, “Molteuri,” set to drop at noon today. South Carnival stands out for its innovative approach to capturing the essence of the island through music, translating Jeju’s unique language, emotions, and communal life into sonic experiences. The band draws inspiration from Jeju’s shamanism, haenyeo culture, folk tales, and everyday existence, infusing their lyrics and melodies with the spirit of the island.
Their distinctive blend of traditional Korean world music with a modern twist, characterized by Afrobeat-based sounds, seamlessly merges the old and the new, the local and the global. This fusion results in a sound that embodies the essence of Jeju while resonating with audiences worldwide. South Carnival’s music is a testament to their ability to craft a universal language that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries.
The title of their upcoming single, “Molteuri,” refers to individuals in Jeju responsible for tending to horses. The song evokes nostalgic memories of childhood, following a Malteuri father and interacting with horses. The track’s composition includes elements such as the pitch “Trying to Be Difficult,” inspired by real sounds used in communication, adding depth to the narrative. “Molteuri” beautifully portrays the emotions of young Malteuris, capturing moments of loneliness, confidence, and the profound bond between words.
In addition to their new release, South Carnival is poised to embark on a series of exciting international ventures. The band will be headlining the indoor music festival “Radio Music Network 2025” in Shibuya, Tokyo, on July 23, sharing the stage with artists from Japan and Spain. Subsequently, they will grace the “The Palace of Wonder” stage at Japan’s renowned Fuji Rock Festival 2025 from July 25 to 27. Their participation in these events is part of the “2025 Popular Music Overseas Performance Support Project” by the Korea Creative Content Agency, reflecting their growing influence on the global music scene.
Looking ahead, South Carnival has announced plans for another new song release in August, signaling their ambitions to solidify their reputation as a band that proudly celebrates the spirit of Jeju on the international stage. By fusing tradition and innovation, South Carnival continues to push boundaries, offering listeners a glimpse into the soul of Jeju through their captivating music.