Crying Nut, the legendary Korean rock band widely recognized as pioneers of the country's independent music movement, is commemorating its 30th anniversary with an ambitious exhibition and concert series. The comprehensive celebration, titled "Speed Up Losers," is taking place at KTG Sangsangmadang in Seoul's Hongdae district and will run from October 25 through January 31, 2026.
The special anniversary project combines visual art, music, and live performance in a multi-sensory retrospective that chronicles the band's three-decade journey. The celebration carries dual significance, marking not only Crying Nut's 30 years together as a group but also the 30th anniversary of Korea's entire independent music scene. The project aims to revisit the band's artistic origins while documenting the evolution of the country's underground music culture.
During a press event held in Seoul's Mapo-gu district, the band members reflected on the early days of Hongdae's music scene, describing an era that was chaotic but creatively liberating. "Back then, the police came almost every week because clubs weren't legally recognized," explained vocalist Park Yoon-sik. "It was chaotic and unregulated, but it was also a space of freedom. That chaos made our music possible."
The exhibition features an extensive collection of unreleased memorabilia, archival footage, newly commissioned artworks, and interactive installations designed to immerse visitors in Crying Nut's world. The band specifically sought to recreate the atmosphere of Drug, the now-defunct Hongdae club where their musical journey began in 1995. "It was dark, damp and dirty, but that was its charm," recalled guitarist Lee Sang-myun. "We wanted to bring that raw feeling back because that's where everything started for us."
Throughout their three-decade career, Crying Nut's music has served as a rallying cry for rebellion and release, with their anthemic hit "Speed Up Losers" becoming particularly iconic. The title track from their debut studio album, released in 1998, achieved remarkable success by selling over 100,000 copies despite being produced by an independent label. This record introduced punk rock to mainstream Korean audiences and firmly established the band's place in the country's music history.
"The lyrics still reflect the frustrations people feel today," noted drummer Lee Sang-hyuk. "That's why the song still resonates. Its message hasn't aged." Bassist Han Kyung-rock explained that the exhibition title "Speed Up Losers" was deliberately chosen to represent both the band's identity and their message to younger musicians. "We started as indie musicians, and we're not saying we're legends yet," Han said. "It means we're still running toward that goal. We've lived as indie musicians for 30 years without a single member change, and we want to give hope to those dreaming of doing the same."
The band members also reflected on how today's Korean independent music has found global audiences through online platforms and international festivals. "When we started, no one imagined Korean indie music would be heard abroad," Park observed. "Now, young bands are performing in Europe and Asia with fans who know their lyrics. It's exciting to see how the spirit of independence we shared is being carried on in new ways."
Following the exhibition's opening, Sangsangmadang's Live Hall will host a lineup of special concerts featuring prominent artists who share deep connections with Crying Nut through Hongdae's independent music community. The scheduled performers include Kim Chang-wan Band, Jannabi, Chang Kiha, and Kim Soo-chul. Additional performances by Jung Woo, Far East Asian Tigers, and Melomance's Jeong Dong-hwan will be announced during the exhibition period.
For the band members, this 30th anniversary represents not an endpoint but rather a new beginning in their musical journey. "Before being the best band, we just want to keep enjoying what we do," Lee said. "We've been running together since our youth, and we'll keep running." Admission to the exhibition is free with advance reservation, while concert tickets can be purchased separately through Sangsangmadang's official website.
