[ENTERTAINMENT]Duo Brings Radio Back From the Brink

It's true that video killed the radio star. But this horrible power of video has not yet crushed DJ Kim Hyung-jun and producer Goh Min-suk, who are alive, kicking and running a new radio program, "Pops Club 1077."

"Sometimes, it's hard to keep producing this program," said Mr. Goh in an interview with the JoongAng Ilbo English Edition. But he is not being peevish about the declining influence of his area of speciality, radio. The reason is physical rather than cerebral. "It's because the DJ and I keep standing up to dance while on air." The high spirits in the studio are directly transmitted to listeners.

The program's playlist is limited to songs from overseas, which differentiates it from other programs. While many radio programs dealt with foreign songs in the 1980s, now almost all radio programs offer domestic tracks only.

For those who feel nostalgic for those programs now consigned to history, this program is the perfect remedy. "I want my listeners not to feel 'mistreated' because they live in Korea," says Mr. Kim. And expatriates living in Korea can get a taste of home listening to oldies, the latest hot tracks, and everything in between.

Mr. Goh explained, "The title, 'Pops Club 1077,' means the program should appeal to everybody, from ages 10 to 77."

Mr. Kim has a long and slightly checkered history as DJ and producer (known in the lingo as "PDJ"). Up until recently, he was producer and DJ for "FM Pops" for rival radio station CBS. Here he built a reputation for his musical appreciation, winning over a wide range of fans. But a labor union affair put a stop to the program, whereupon Mr. Goh suggested that they work together.

The new partners say the theme of their program is "back to basics." These days, Korean radio programs are like talk shows, often hosted by popular singers, actors and actresses. Professional DJs for radio programs are thin on the ground, and the overall quality of radio programs has consequently deteriorated.

Domestic radio programs have tried to overcome this deficiency by luring listeners with prizes, disrupting the purpose of the program which is to allow listeners relish the music.

Mr. Kim said, "If every program is flooded with teen idols who don't know the music too well, it means there is nothing for adults to hear. I think it's my duty to provide variety for listeners."

Mr. Goh continued, "We will focus on music, instead of chatting and giving away prizes."

While other radio programs offer an average of only 15 songs in a two-hour show, this program will play from 22 to 25 songs a day.

Mr. Kim went on, saying, "I would like to let people know how a radio program can energize your daily life." This afternoon, how about turning off the fool box awhile and tuning in to the radio?

"Pops Club 1077" airs daily from 4-6 p.m. on SBS Power (107.7 FM).

by Chun Su-jin