Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival announces initial lineup for 20th anniversary
The Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival, a staple in South Korea’s music scene, has recently unveiled the initial lineup for its milestone 20th anniversary edition. The festival features a diverse array of acts, blending legendary bands with up-and-coming stars from across the globe. Pulp, the iconic Britpop group recognized as one of the genre’s “Big Four,” will take the helm as the headliner for this year’s festivities. With a storied history dating back to 1978, Pulp gained fame in the 1990s with hits like “Babies,” “Disco 2000,” and “Common People.” Fans were delighted to learn about the band’s plans for a new album release, marking their first in 24 years and coinciding with their debut performance in Korea.
Adding to the excitement, Japanese rock band Asian Kung-Fu Generation will also feature prominently in the festival’s lineup. Renowned for their emotional melodies, dynamic vocals, and powerful instrumentals, the group has earned widespread acclaim since their inception in 2003. Other notable acts include singer-songwriter Beabadoobee, recognized as part of the BBC’s “Sound of 2020,” and DeafHeaven, pioneers of the blackgaze genre known for delivering a transcendent musical experience.
Representing Korea’s vibrant music scene, the lineup includes a diverse array of talent such as singer-songwriter Chang Ki-ha, known for his versatility in creating film scores and band compositions. Additionally, the highly acclaimed band Hyukoh will collaborate with Taiwanese indie group Sunset Rollercoaster, while Balming Tiger will showcase their distinctive sound. The roster also features Meaningful Stone, Band Nah, and the genre-defying vocalist Song Sohee, who effortlessly melds elements of Korean traditional music with rock. Noteworthy acts like Hanrorro, who recently shared the stage with Coldplay, will join established Korean bands Touched and Lucy on the festival’s stage.
Scheduled to take place from August 1-3 at Songdo Moonlight Festival Park in Incheon, the 2025 Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival promises an unforgettable experience for music enthusiasts. Boasting a lineup of around 60 domestic and international artists, the festival will also offer limited-edition merchandise and a series of events celebrating the evolution of the Korean rock scene since Pentaport’s inception in 2006.
Overall, the eclectic mix of talent set to grace the stage at the Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival underscores the event’s significance as a seminal cultural gathering. Music lovers can anticipate a unique and immersive experience celebrating the rich tapestry of the global music scene while paying homage to the festival’s enduring legacy in shaping South Korea’s vibrant musical landscape.