Music fest promotes an eco-friendly message

As the chilly weather turns warm, people pull out lighter clothes from their closets.

For those who look forward to enjoying the warm sunlight along with music, Greenplugged Seoul 2016 is the festival to go. It kicks off from May 21 to 22 at Nanji Hangang Park, located in Mapo District in Seoul.

The festival, which runs every May, is in its seventh year this spring. It began with idea that protecting the environment is important and has been trying to share this idea through the power of music.

In line with this basic philosophy, the festival uses environmentally friendly methods. For example, the festival saves trees by using recycled paper and soybean oil to produce the pamphlets. There are other campaigns being carried out, such as the “40 Project” organized to prevent deforestation and a campaign which promotes the usage of tumblers rather than disposable cups that pose harm to the environment.

It also releases a music album titled “SUM” each year with 10 to 12 artists that participate to contribute to promoting the message.

The final lineup for the festival was announced last week. It encompasses acoustic music, rock and even hip-hop. It also invites rookie singers who were selected as “Green Friends” to give them a special opportunity to perform during the festival.

The indie rock band Nell, Kim Yun-ah, the powerful vocalist from the rock band Jaurim, and the a cappella group Sweet Sorrow were added in the final artist list. Also, rock bands Guckkasten and No Brain and hip-hop stars Dok2, The Quiet and Beenzino will perform at the festival. Loco and Gray are on the lineup as well.

The list also includes Crying Nut, Rose Motel, Lee Seung-hwan, Zitten, Sweden Laundry and other artists, so the festival will be one of the rare opportunities for indie music fans to see their favorite musicians on the big stage.

This unique festival tries to be a positive influence in the world with the power of music.

BY KIM HYE-JUN [kim.hyejun@joongang.co.kr]