For “alternative K-pop” collective Balming Tiger, “having fun” is what matters most. That is why the group is returning to Hong Kong – its members fondly recall how the enthusiastic crowd pelted them with “shoes and slippers” during their first performance in the city at the 2023 Clockenflap Music and Arts Festival.
“The energy that Hong Kong people brought to the festival was something else. They were hyped and going crazy,” says frontman and rapper Omega Sapien. “Usually, we get that when we’re in the US or Europe, not in Asia [where] it’s calmer. I really loved the energy there. It was quite unforgettable.”
Balming Tiger brought out a wild side of Hong Kong two years ago but has been loved worldwide since June 2018, when the group debuted the single “I’m Sick”. Its energetic music video was nominated for best of the year at the 2019 Korean Hip-hop Awards and has garnered more than 4.7 million views on YouTube.
The Seoul-based collective is known for a creativity that crosses musical genres. Their quirky visuals and choreography defy the immaculately polished image of the South Korean entertainment industry.
Balming Tiger have collaborated with K-pop giants such as singer-songwriter IU and BTS’ leader RM, as well as British rapper Little Simz.