A folk musician, pastor and grassroots activist, Hwang Puha has become a distinctive voice in Korea’s contemporary music scene – one grounded in empathy, social awareness and a deep commitment to the people whose stories are often unheard. Emerging from Seoul’s independent music community, Hwang Puha’s stripped-back acoustic sound and poignant lyrics explore themes of belonging, displacement, faith and the human cost of rapid urban development. His performance at markets, community spaces and public demonstrations have turned his music into a living archive of everyday struggles and collective resilience.
Through a unique blend of spirituality and artistry, Hwang uplifts the voices of those navigating gentrification and social pressure reminding us that music can be more than entertainment, it can be a sanctuary, a witness and a catalyst for change.
In this interview, Hwang shares the inspirations behind his musical journey, the responsibility he feels as both artist and pastor and the meaning of creating music grounded in truth and humanity.
The following are excerpts from an email interview with Hwang from October 20 to November 3.
1. Can you tell us about your early life and what drew you to music?
I have loved music since I was young. I played the cello because I liked Hanna Jang. And I used to play a nylon guitar that was lying around on the floor of my house. I grew up poor, but my soul was not poor. I was able to love music and feel free because of it. And there was a book by my side to read, and I had ideas. And I could write and sing songs.
2. When did you realize that music could be a tool for social change and community engagement?
There was a time when I enjoyed listening to the Beatles. Then, naturally, I started listening to John Lennon's later music and Bob Dylan's music together, and I felt the change. Just as with power comes responsibility, I learned that in music there is freedom but also responsibility. I also learned that singing about love cannot be any different from the world. There were many such songs in Korea as well. Among them, Kim Min-ki's song came to my mind. Because his songs changed Korean society.
3. Who have been your biggest musical influences, both in Korea and internationally?
There are too many. Firstly, I liked Radiohead. Their songs are classic, yet mysterious and challenging. In Korea, Minki Kim's song still captures my heart. There are many other really great musicians.
4. Are there particular performances or projects that you feel had a significant impact on your audience or the community?
I once created a performance to protect a beer house called Eulji OB Bear. It was the oldest beer bar in Korea, but was in danger of being evicted due to gentrification. We performed with fellow musicians, and we had to pay a large fine for making noise. The noise was only 65db. However, we were not intimidated and created a concert called '65db'. And because of this performance, many people became interested in this social issue. Also, I recently participated in a new folk song project called ‘New Song Project’ with the song ‘The Kingdom’. Just then, the Yoon Seok-yeol impeachment rally began, and many citizens were able to sing the song together.
5. Looking back on your career, what moments are you most proud of?
There were many times when I was happy. It's great when audiences come to my performances, and it's also great when I get invited to a good performance or shoot. I also like it when my song is nominated for an award ceremony. I am also proud when projects related to social issues are successful. But my proudest moments are when my songs have an impact on someone's life. I feel the proudest when someone tells me that they overcame sadness and loneliness because of my songs.
Hwang Puha stands as a rare figure in today’s music world, an artist who views song not as a commodity, but as a commitment. His work bridges spiritual reflection and social reality, offering comfort while urging listeners to look more closely at the communities around them.
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