Soo Seoulful: Leading Korean DJ Soolee Dishes on Fighting a Holy War Behind the Decks

Korean DJ Soolee is set to unleash his high-octane, electro-laced instrumentals on Beijing fans hankering for a taste of Seoul’s dance music scene on Nov 10 at Dada. Aside from building a reputation as one of Seoul’s top producers and DJs, Soolee is also a well-regarded curator who plays his favorite tracks on his Less n Less podcast. Ahead of his Beijing show, he gives us the lowdown on nightlife in Seoul, what inspired him to hit the decks in the first place, and more.

What is the music scene like in Seoul?
I think Seoul’s music scene has grown very fast in past few years. I feel like it is now the scene I have dreamed of for a long time. Seoul is very energetic and diverse with many good clubs, DJs, labels, and fans.

So now that Seoul has a good music scene, I guess we won’t go back to the way it was before. But at the same time, if it grows too fast, we may miss something important.

How did you first get involved in DJing?
I became deeply interested about 10 years ago, once I found out about the underground techno scene in Detroit. And now I just keep working hard to be a good underground techno DJ and producer. Of course, there have been many obstacles along the way, and sometimes that makes me feel down. Before, it used to feel like working in the underground was like fighting a holy war. But now I’m enjoying it. 

What do you enjoy most about going abroad to play sets?
I love the feeling that we are connected with music, even if our cultures are different. It feels like the cultural differences disappear. When I see people dance with a smile, it’s the greatest reward for me.

This will be my fourth time playing in Beijing, and every time I go I get really inspired. I’m really looking forward to going back to Beijing.

Tell me about some of the music you are working on these days, and what is inspiring it.
I’m working on a full-length album with a new idea. It is inspired by my feelings over the past few years. I had kind of a long journey thinking about who I am and why. It will be a story told with 11 tracks, and will be named with Chinese text that is also used by Koreans. I’ve been working on this album for half a year, and am still sorting out some details. If I had to choose a word to describe this album, it would be “primitive.”

Who are some other DJs that you look up to?
Recently I’ve been really impressed by [Chicago-born house DJ] Honey Dijon. She has an extraordinary, amazing energy and a beautiful vibe. I think Honey Dijon has a special quality that I lack.

DJ Soolee will perform at Dada on Nov 10. Doors open at 9pm. Tickets are RMB 60. You can check out Soolee's music here and his podcast here.

Photos courtesy of ByeByeDisco