Breaking Down The K-Pop Industry With Eric Nam | FO 163 Raj Shamani

[@ericnam]

Thanks for having me Raj!

[@NiteshKumar-dx8zg]

❤❤

[@pdp.poulamidaspramanick]

❤❤❤

[@pujashakya1862]

❤

[@carrieJames-ex9pu]

Hey Eric! I love watching the videos of dive studios its damn funny! especially the conversation you had with Jackson wang it was funny at same time heart touching...

[@ajita12]

Lots of love to you❤from india🇮🇳keep growing ✨

[@nishit8937]

your are the first in indian podcast industry to have a korean artist

[@chaeniee8952]

​Can't you just appreciate and if you dont then ignore it ....simple 💀💀@@syeris

[@maryhduke2307]

Not true. There was a woman Indian journalist who interviewed BTS years ago.

[@ncwll8]

​@@maryhduke2307yep. She's Sakshma Srivastav.

[@R_I_Y_A]

There's a lot of Indian channel interviewing k-pop idols . But this is first Indian podcast of a korean artist face to face!!

[@PerfectThings01]

​@@maryhduke2307but wo online interview aise hy nhi hua tha bts butter song ke Promotion ke liye aaye the.. Samjhe

[@nirup25july]

Eric nam is an intelligent smart and handsome celebrity...Not like others.. Thankyou for inviting him. Even he is a good interpreter he has his own ...

[@blacksocks8914]

And a Zionist

[@Azusjs22]

​​​@@blacksocks8914 we don't care....

[@Abcd-vd8eb]

​@@blacksocks8914What the hell🤦.

[@suhanipal4565]

​@@blacksocks8914is he really ?

[@blacksocks8914]

@@suhanipal4565 yes he posted that isra£l have right to defend itself bullshit

[@kind_human_being]

When Eric said BTS WERE THE "ULTIMATE UNDERDOG". Ahhhhh I felt it way too hard so many people in India need to know the story of BTS and get inspired, rather than spreading hate against them( especially the male audience)

[@stardust08]

it seems like even the host is surprised to hear that

[@notyourcupoftae]

​@@Rakshita442 Do you think it's fair to judge any artist through THEIR fans rather than their talent or what they actually do professionally?

[@khushi7900]

​@@Rakshita442 First people insult without knowing anything then they bad mouth then fans defend so they are toxic and immature according to people like you.

[@khushi7900]

@@Rakshita442 Another woke mentality girl. What you can even do other than calling toxic .....Nothing 🫵🤣.

[@syeris]

Fr..... Bts is famous because of India... It's the Indian influence.... And they will get shit after going in korea 😂 ​@@Rakshita442

[@sonofroderick4255]

I'm 61 and I really have gotten interested in K-pop, K-dramas, food. And I'm proud to say I know who Eric Nam is. What has led me to take interest was K-pop music, yes BTS. I now follow other groups. The music is so upbeat, no profanity, clean. It reminds me when I grew up in U.S. years ago as a child. Safer. The Korean entertainment is funny. We had shows in the 1960 - 70's that were family fun. These are some reasons I like Korea. Someday I hope to visit. Really enjoyed this interview with Eric.. Indepth questions with well explained answers. Non-trivial questioning.

[@karengomez6229]

I’m in the same boat as you. 62, BTS ARMY, Suga and V bias. I’ve been following Eric Nam as an interviewer for a year or two. Only recently discovered that he was a musical artist as well…almost embarrassing…but he cleared up why I found him through podcasts and TV interviewing. So proud of him being an Asian American myself…he mixes the cultures well in how he presents himself and others. ❤

[@nmz04]

What many non listeners ardently believe those who do not listen to kpop are not aware of the history and politics. That is a major misconception that leads to the idea of all brainwashed kids listening to something that comes across as flashy. But that only applies for those who just began or are whose algorithm (usually of those who only search up for at most celeb drama) will be in such a mindset. Most of the listeners are infact researchers of all the nuances in the industry? Feels like a joke? Well take bts for an example. Their core fandom engagement began with their express (with their music and lyrics) and response (by their fans). You heard eric say they were the biggest underdogs. The reason they could come out of the plights of an indie artist is because their way of communication (this express and response) was extremely well done. They talked about their issues (which if you know the politics and filth thar exists in any industry you would know how hard core these issues are) to the extent that they would enlighten their fans to these hidden realities. Now think logically. Do u really think if the fans were incapable and not literate enough to understand political nuances, they would be capable of supporting the widely outspoken nature of bts's music? Besides its not like they have not gotten into contreversies. Vast majority of bts's contreversies arise from a difference in opinion in the fan's responses. Eg. They have had ignorant lyrics that may become offensive. When called out their teenage selves took to learning why what they might express can be insultful and now in their peak of success when having to speak in places like UN and asked about sociopolitical problems they respond with their own mistakes as an example and why it was impirtant to them to grow from those mistakes. What you see as an outsider is just like any social media aggrevated culture. In bollywood the way papparazi creates non existant issues and that immaturity transends because of the way platforms aid to that, the same applies for kpop. Plus anything you see in comments is a limited explanation. Look how long my comment had to be to explain many sides of a picture. The key problem is assuming and then giving power to such assumptions. Both listeners and non listeners do it the same degree and thats why things appear to be so extremely toxic.

[@yazzi373]

That's cool what's your ethnicity?

[@artsymarci]

As an older fan,, I'm proud to be an Eric fan since 2016 and see him perform twice!🥰🤗

[@gourisharma655]

I love Eric ! He broke down information so accurately & answered all the questions with great detail…especially when he was explained why Korea is becoming huge! Why K-pop is everywhere…it was all great insight.

[@rajshamani]

💯

[@Mallikarjun-g]

​@@rajshamani In music we have categories carnatic, folk, pop, Bhangra, Bhajan we need new music in categories of Jazz, edm, metal, hip hop, flok, Rap, pop, EDM, Disco, Rock, Country, reggae to develop. Do a talk on this.

[@anjalisinhajns]

Yes..he was very articulate and we Indians are suckers for people who talk well😊😊

[@anjalisinhajns]

One thing which you could have probably added was his opinion about India, Indians , Indian Artists , Bollywood etc..

[@sofypi7493]

u love a zionist?

[@NICENAME-su9nh]

I loved how Eric answered everything and explained it! the way he talked about the "dark side of kpop" "Bts tripping and falling", everything was appreciable!! Eric has always been my favorite k-soloist and i think he will always be:) thankyou so much to raj for being calm and trying to understand him, i hope that you learnt some new good things:) lots of love to Eric!

[@kookified]

BTS were the ULTIMATE UNDERDOGS as mentioned by Eric and non-fans don't know their story & assume them to be some industry plants. They have one of the most inspiring rag to richies story. From being a part of a small company which was on a verge of bankruptcy, cut from brodcasts, mocked on variety shows & by artists from big companies, their personal struggles to overcoming all that and making the said company one of the most profitable companies in South Korea & gaining worldwide popularity. Eric is so articulate and spot on with things.

[@Hornycavil]

Gayts

[@Lilithnunacarrot]

​@@Hornycavil bro seriously? Just how narrow is your mind???

[@khushi7900]

@@Lilithnunacarrot attention mang raha hai 😂 🤡

[@ranjanasahu9552]

​@@khushi7900 but they bullied by their own country people's coz they're little kids that time they didn't found them attractive coz they're kid time I don't know what they wanted from kids talent or instead sexy stuffs damn , even they called BTS ugly like damn how can they judge them by their looks now they're crying for their looks dying to get attention from them stalking them like hell 🙄

[@khushi7900]

@@ranjanasahu9552 yes when you are nothing people don't value you. But if you work hard enough for your dreams then no one can stop you. And thats what they preached. Not many people supported them from the start but now every one regrets why they didn't discovered them earlier. But now look... they have achieved everything they wanted. Now they are Idols of idols. They really worked hard. Everything paid off.

[@blackpinkspyongbong9834]

Eric's reply on dark side of kpop is just so cool that's what it is mayn.. he literally just straight up dissed people making "dark reality of kpop" "koreans hate indians" videos

[@harshaliygadgil]

I love Eric and in my observation he has always been respectful towards India that doesn't mean K-pop doesn't have a dark reality? LMAO! Every industry from Hollywood to K-pop has a dark reality. Even Bollywood has/had in one point in time. He is smart. He is not going to go on another country's podcast and defame the industry he is from. Not everyone's like some brown coolie Indians, you know, demeaning their country everywhere. That doesn't change the reality that K entertainment industry has a dark side and Koreans are xenophobic towards Indians. As usual, cope about it average K-pop fan.

[@knowitall1005]

Those videos arent wrong in any way ....they arent majority cases but avery significant number of cases outlining the problematic practices prevailing in their entertainment industry...as you yourself a kpop fan you wont gonna see it unless you gonna mature and find some real achievements in your real life and not living on achievements such as your idol winning some award or topping some chart which never gonna change anything in your life

[@blackpinkspyongbong9834]

@@knowitall1005 bro hold on ik what you mean but everyone actually have to work hard at some point of life I am not saying that extreme is good like obviously idols have their own life they decide to which extend they have to work hard but when sometimes the industry makes them work so hard it's definitely not worth it...

[@knowitall1005]

​@@blackpinkspyongbong9834 They earn so less even after so much hard wirk and that's what termed as exploitation ..american pop artists or american actors and even bollywood actors make much more than them in much less hard work based on their skills and nit labour..thats why kpop industry looks more of an industry characterised by labour rather than skillset or creativity in contrast to other music industries around the world

[@Kmeel11]

​​​​@@knowitall1005there are some kpop group who earn even more then indian bollywood and pop .. Even net worth of bts and bp are in billions ,,even more then sarukh khan ( in million)

[@Helen_4444]

Omg Eric nam can't belive 🤩...any dive studio fans?

[@Gudly._.]

🙋🏻‍♀️❤

[@lightyagami8760]

Here here

[@nocarle222]

👋

[@selenophile0804]

Here I am😂

[@Adv.S.S.Kulkarni]

Here 🙋🏻‍♀️🙋🏻‍♀️

[@ajita12]

It was literally an unexpected podcast i can’t believe its eric nam we are seeing here😳 thank you so much for bringing him in your podcast 🥹

[@rajshamani]

thank you for so much love & support, also let me know how it was🙌

[@itsmyworld7197]

​@@rajshamaniCan you also can take interview of nance

[@Mallikarjun-g]

​@@rajshamani In music we have categories carnatic, folk, pop, Bhangra, Bhajan we need new music in categories of Jazz, edm, metal, hip hop, flok, Rap, pop, EDM, Disco, Rock, Country, reggae to develop. Do a talk on this.

[@truthruster]

Raj is kpop fan too, you didn't know? He has been to so many blackpink concerts and always gets premium tickets.

[@MusicHeartWorld]

The part where Eric says that it's ok to be doing various things and let everyone's perspective be as it is. Honestly it helped me realise something on a personal level and triggered or boosted my self confidence in a way. So thank you

[@KimmyW1971]

As Bts Army, I fell in love with them for their music, their humility, their creativity, their vulnerability, their soul. They were the underdogs. They have a beautiful fanbase of many ages. I also discovered Eric around the same time. Have been to one of Eric's concerts. Love his vibe. Love that he speaks his mind so well.

[@BertinaKorgaonker]

ERIC NAM, my favourite, I love all his songs.He is good at everything.I'm so happy, thank you so much Raj for inviting Eric on your podcast.

[@PiCloset]

Eric Nam was previously known as a Korean singer, but now he is recognized as an American singer. Therefore, we should view him as an American singer rather than solely as a K-pop artist. This highlights his talent and transition in the music industry.

[@karengomez6229]

Raj…. You asked for feedback on international guests. This is my first viewing of your show. It was Eric Nam that cued your show for me. You were gracious and asked questions for Eric to expand upon. I’ve been following Eric Nam as an interviewer for a year or two. Only recently discovered that he was a musical artist as well…almost embarrassing…but he cleared up why I found him through podcasts and as a TV. And…as he pointed out, I discovered BTS prior to the pandemic…and expanded my discovery during the pandemic due to time availability. I am true ARMY. But Eric has expanded my interest in his work as well as other Kpop artists through his interviews with them. So proud of him! …being an Asian American myself…he mixes the cultures well in how he presents himself and others. TOTALLY Enjoyed this interview.

[@Brachiosaurus_7]

i love the way eric described about BTS like the way this interviewer said they do some random sh!t and all it was DISRESPECTFUL for real but eric handled it beautifully💜

[@Hornycavil]

Gayts

[@armyforeversupportbts]

BTS is inspired me love myself 💜💜💜💜💜💜

[@Brachiosaurus_7]

@@Hornycavil Dats none of your business fad..Grow tf up!!!

[@Bang...9900]

​@@Hornycavilyup gay-great artist of the year BTS..we know 🤗

[@BTS-Sommy]

H​@@Bang...9900you have no relation with them, so why are you pained.

[@AaradhyaPalakSingh]

yes more international shows.....not just US focused only but artist from thailand and other asian/european/african popping countries too coz there have been the artists breaking records , getting more influential

[@SFGal9]

Watched After School Club when Eric had Baby BTS in the early days. He's smart, talented and likable.. Vibed really well with BTS. Always a great show.

[@ashyspace]

Eric was incredible as always, you definitely had some really good questions to ask him and an overall great conversation. One thing though, Eric couldn't fully answer the BTS question cause again, it really wouldn't be fair if he told their story as another artist, or even as a friend of theirs who has seen their journey from when they had JUST debuted in 2013 till now. I'll try to answer the best of my abilities as someone who has been a fan of BTS since 2018 (way before they blew up in India) for everyone who genuinely wants to know. The main reason why BTS actually blew up was their lyrics. They do majorly sing in Korean but we have local Korean translators who precisely translate every lyric of theirs so that the international fans can understand. Their lyrics (as a group) have mainly been about the struggles that the youth faces, the fucked up education system and societal pressure, first love and first breakups, loving yourself in a world where everyone seems to make you hate yourself, etc. South Korea has a mandatory enlistment service for all men aging 18-29. BTS were supposed to enlist in 2020 but when they realised that not only their fans, but just about everyone needed some perspective and help when the world stopped, these men who had never fully released an English song before, released Dynamite. This song ended up helping everyone, both fans and non to just enjoy their lives and BE and not be too worried. They could have been selfish and just yeeted off to the military, but they didn't. They proceeded to release Butter and Permission to dance (which also made use of ASL in the choreo) so as to reach a more wider audience. These songs aren't what define them and most would say "oh, these songs are so lame and they are just basic pop" and yeah, they ARE that. They were meant to be a simpler way for people to live on in those difficult times. They are one of the very few korean artists who have been very REAL about themselves, never shying away from talking about getting therapy, going through depression. Other than that, the 7 members of BTS consider each other as family. It's never business for them. Why? They had been through thick and thin with each other. And people absolutely LOVE to see their bond with each other. You as a non fan could just put on a compilation video of BTS' bond with each other, and I can assure you, you'll either be laughing your ass out or shedding tears with how incredibly loving they are towards one another. The reason why any random BTS video, like even of one of the members' falling off stage could have a million views now but that's only cause of how massive the fandom is. It was not that way always though. I'm sorry this went on for way too long, but the reason why the fandom, army, is so defensive over them is because that's just it you know? That's our family for us. You defend your family if a stranger is hating on them for no reason, or solely because they are Asian/Korean or in their case, for just being "BTS". They have saved a million of us from taking our own lives and i could say that they are our heroes, our saviours. If you want to know more, I'd suggest watching one of the introductory videos which goes into more details. Oh and, just one more thing. Each member of bts has been given a diplomat passport by the President of South Korea and have been acknowledged by the government for being one of the major contributors in the growth of the economy of SK. All 7 of them are now in the military, but they didn't leave before each of them releasing a solo album one after the other, (the biggest gap between 2 albums being 3 months and smallest being 1 month) without worrying about records or making money. This rarely ever happens in an industry so big with an artist that has over a million fans around the world. So yeah, if you have been intrigued so far, I'll surely suggest checking out their music. They have a genre for everyone!!

[@kookified]

You r absolutely right

[@knowitall1005]

Oh he was absolutely right..i know kpop since 2016 and BTS became popular internationally first and when they started becoming popular internationally they became popular in korea as well amd then they blew after DNA song and ...in 2016 blood sweat and tears was very popular in their international fans and they since always made alot of reality show content..connecting their fans to their personalities ...and only the love yourself whole tour was about self love but its not lyrics bullsh**t..so many artist has mental health lyrics song...and for someone promoting mental health..their fans appear to be most obsessive and needing some serious thrapies...

[@ashyspace]

@@knowitall1005 i could easily just block u since u are clearly brainde@d thinking that only the love yourself "tour" was about self love. So many kpop artists have come and gone even before 2016 and none of them stuck internationally like bts did. Their lyrics and their REALness was the thing that stuck with people the most. And what do u even mean their fans are obsessive and in need of therapy? Just because we are protective of these men who have received unprovoked hate ever since they debuted? Cut the cameras cause u are looking like a complete fool rn. "So many artists have mental health lyrics songs" yes NOW they do, u know why? Because bts made it easier to be able to talk about it in the industry where idols are expected to be happy all the time. They have time and again written about their own personal experiences. They will continue to do so.

[@kookified]

@@knowitall1005 it is not about just "mental health" lyrics. U completely missed the point. They have sung about societal pressures & dreams in their debut album & continued to sing about important topics like talking about following ur dreams in "no more dream"(debut song) , older generations expectations in "baepse", the newer generation burdening their parents in "spine breaker", for ppl recklessly spending money in "go go", asking the fans to study/work & focus on their lives in "pied piper", expressing the situation during the pandemic in "life goes on", Seoul ferry tragedy in "spring day", for women empowerment in "21st century girls", etc. They've discussed countless topics even political. So u restricting it to the "love urself campaign" is so wrong.

[@ruchiverma2637]

Proud family member of ARMY 💜😎 they are the true inspiration for us, for kids, for youngsters, like lovely grandchildren to many grannies across the globe, they are "life" 😇

[@AK-ob4lt]

I like and appreciate that he's such a good listener n let Eric say whatever he wants. I'm sure Eric got a lot of things out of his mind.

[@VinayVerma-i9b]

Some of the questions are very unrelated and a little uncomfortable but he still handled everything so professionally. Eric Nam is so cool

[@janhavisahu1965]

You are the first Indian Podcaster to have a Korean artist!!!❤️💜

[@biswajita_Artsy]

He's promoting his culture, country in a very efficient way.. things to learn from him 👏

[@samanta15690]

Wow, this was beautiful. Very Good questions asked too, But I guess we never came back to asking Eric about India's role in K-pop, we spoke a lot about US/Western Culture and K pop. But Yes, I do appreciate this sort of first podcast with a legit Kpop artist and Eric was really kind enough to share his view and elaborate and explain his opinion in such an articulate manner.

[@samanta15690]

Just a suggestion, please don't write stuff while the interviewee is talking to you, it kinda distracts the other person and disturbs their chain of thought. It's just a cultural thing, it's okay in India, especially in a podcast setup up but it caught my eye and distracted me for a split second too. But you were good Raj! Please keep it coming.

[@LilacPeony3088]

@@samanta15690 Write it individually so he see your comment not under another comment , it's not noticeable 🥰🥰

[@SwarnjitSingh-m9f]

Eric constantly kept keeping an eye on Raj taking notes of his conversation is so dope 😅😅😂

[@gallakochar4245]

🚩I think he is jotting down just the key words as clue to ask more on - spot questions during the interview.. not taking constant notes. I have seen many famous interviewers doing it.

[@denisehowship5178]

Loved this . Eric is a natural communicator. His perspective is very clear and informative. I have followed Eric for about 6years. I’m an Australian grandmother of 63 and recently went to his concert in Melbourne. His show is fun and he comes across as a long lost friend . You did a fabulous job on your interview and your questions were exactly what I want to hear. Thankyou both for a great interview 🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻

[@anitamanik2490]

Eric nam is so good at podcasts :)

[@Lolo77573]

He himself has a talk show maybe that’s why.

[@koolmom9163]

Bring more international guests. Eric is so real, humble and talented…love his music!!! Bring him back again and bring more Korean artists but very few would be talking in English.

[@shahryartiwana6415]

Great to see Eric on indian podcast thanks Raj to introduce k pop artist to south Asian audience

[@karenayoungchee410]

I totally enjoyed this. Thank u. I recently got into Kpop. And I'm 53. Lol. I love bts bc they introduce me to it. I also love stray kids. Both these groups helped me a lot.

[@samp6095]

The pod was so interesting, you have asked many questions on different scenarios...very thoughtful! But our Eric , who've mastered hosting can guess where are the questions are taking him to...I would say he was genuine and very thoughtful at the same time while answering your questions. The questions can expose a different side of the industry but , thoughtfully a good and better side has been shared to us by Eric...❤ hopefully u do more such pods with intersting people❤

[@ankitabhinde7073]

I really love the way ericnam explained everything really well.❤❤

[@anusmitakalita517]

Oh God how come I am this late. Ericname is here!! So good to see him talk and the way he presents his side of story🫶

[@jennifervaughn1541]

I love Eric Nam I first saw Eric when he did a variety show with BTS called the afterschool show. I have loved how he was very respectful towards them on that show and I’ve just gotten to where I really like Eric the more I see him.

[@armykdramaholic4097]

As an Indian am so happy to see Eric in this podcast but trust me I came here just because I saw Eric . I am new to your channel , came because of him, and hope to stay for the upcoming podcasts too. Keep going👍💜

[@nori9779]

ERIICCCC nam here am I dreaming????!!! 😳😳😳😱😱

[@나이오미]

이런 긍정적인 유튜버 너무 좋아요. 저는 인도 유튜버들이 kpop이랑 bts 욕할때 너무 슬펐어요. 한국문화를 좋아해주시는 분들이 많아서 감사합니다. 저도 인도문화를 좋아해요!!Love India from South Korea!!😍😍🥰🥰🥰

[@naseeranasi2033]

I am k-pop hater

[@ashwatson7097]

We are not haters just language barrier

[@User-li9xz]

We Don't Hate You, But On The Contrary, You People Hate Our Culture And On The Contrary, You Are Introducing Your K-pop Into Our Culture On The Contrary You Guys Are Infiltrating K-pop Into Our Culture This Is A Not Acceptable 🗿🤬

[@AneeGogoi-u5e]

It goes to korea too..they also have negative distinct for India ..not all but some who think India is dirty..watch some channels who degrade it

[@soyanshumohapatra]

*Who spread hate bro?*

[@user-lr3hd5rc6n]

It's just their Hard work ❤ #BTS

[@n_rounder6192]

Yeah they worked their blood and sweat for where they are now. BTS are hard working man

[@shanna007]

BTS 💜

[@TonyStark-zl3ms]

Yeah ❤🤞💜 BTS 😢

[@harmeetkaur1624]

Yeah 💜

[@Sha_shasa]

Wow he is so amazing individual thanku for having him I loved it ❤

[@annkilroy4286]

Eric is amazing live. And his connection and interaction with the crowd is definately one of the best parts. His enthusiasm for performing is sincere. If you have a chance to see him live. Go! Have a great time. ❤ God bless you Eric from Detroit Michigan. Come again soom!

[@annagurtner9606]

I really love how Eric Nam talks, it just feels so real. He speaks so carefully, you can see he doesn’t just says some random things, he knows how to say it right

[@CharmingJimin-xr5bz]

Raj shamani bhai thoda taraf tawajjoh digye kyuki aapke dil ko bhi nhi pata ke aap ne bohot hi important kaam kiya matlab Eric Nam ke saath podcast karke kyuki aaj ke modern day mein Kpop industry ke dark secrets ko discuss karna bohot zyada zaruri hai Proud of you bro 👍

[@vijethas4519]

Great seeing Eric as guest and share his stories.... Seen so much of Eric being a host this seems new...

[@shrinidhi8856]

Thank you so much for bringing Eric ..he is a great artist..his songs are just too good..nd pls invite P-pop artists too...

[@alkananda7765]

I don't watch podcasts that much and if I do, I usually don't watch the full show or finish in 3/4 times, cause my attention span is really short and I easily get bored these days specially when it comes to watch talk shows and podcasts. But I watched the whole podcast in one go. It was really enjoying, the questions and the way Eric answered.. everything was really enlightening and calming. Great Job! ❤

[@StarsClouds]

So good!!!! i loved this conversation and thank you for having eric in your show

[@rajshamani]

Our pleasure!

[@Palak..15]

ohhh my goddd..... the collab we needed but didnt knew..... its too good to be truee

[@Hvr_Jinie]

I love seeing Eric on the other side of the podcast table. Thank you for bringing him on the podcast. 🧡

[@TeresaPaz-Soldan]

I discovered great music through kdramas and from that I started looking for more artista with similar content. I don’t speak korean at all but it is true music is a universal language. Thank you for the interview. Great conversation 🩷

[@25103080]

Hey Raj, have to say you got a good radar of people around you, when do we get to see an episode on how you curate who you like to bring onto the show :) Good vibes ! Was reading the latest Spotify Culture Next report. There is so much to think about after this episode while I sit here connecting the dots planning my next trip to Korea . Thanks for the collaboration and bringing this video .

[@lealarsen2017]

what a well spoken person Eric is. and i love what he said about kpop and BTS. it is like a family but don´t know about the underdog thing because many of us became their fans when they were already famous. for me what drew me to BTS was their personalities. they were not trying to be hardcore idols who pretended to be Gods on stage or anything. we always saw their real side off the came in every process. so it keeps us reminded that they are just like you and me and if they can achieve their dream than so can i. so they helped me alot they have inspired millions of people. and their lyrics is the main thing too that sets them apart from other kpop groups. solo singers is a total different thing i feel like. so it can´t be compared

[@BohoDevi]

As a BTS army so happy to see Eric Nam on your podcast, Eric used to host a popular talk show called After School Club on Arirang channel and he has done such fun interviews with BTS.

[@tamararichardpenny724]

K Drama's have an innocence that the human heart longs for. The values we once cherished, still appear in Korea, what's not to love, the heart knows what it needs. In addition their great movie makers. Amazing so beautiful ❤️

[@Diyaa_0717]

Very excited to see this podcast❤

[@rajshamani]

It will be worth it!

[@Frenchfry_911]

I've seen this over 7 months late but damn! This is such a random yet amazing collaboration!

[@PoojaVarshney]

watching kdramas for more than a decade i can say that kdramas are the best example of class storytelling, the cinematography, editing, direction, heartwarming stories even for the old days shows (emperor of the sea or Jewel in the Palace) surely not all but majority of them. its just that being stuck at home during covid gave people a chance to look at them as an option to find entertainment.. and the quality of storytelling just hooked them up. Also a big fan of all the Figuring Out series.. never miss a single podcast and now seeing a kpop artist here made it even more special... off to sharing this with all my kdrama friends.. thank you so much.

[@knowitall1005]

Are you serious..i have them as well but even the top ones are cheesy as hell..eventually i stopped watching..from nowhere they are class storytelling only 10% kdramas are somewhat good others are all same ..cringe and cheesy..just indian dailysoaps with limited number of episodes and in korean and more budget

[@LilacPeony3088]

Sorry to interrupt you , may be you only focus on korean dramas that you didn't notice , maximum dramas are taken from japanese and chinese as they have kind of same cultural and they once under japanese rule . So, you will see the similar foods also like kimbap or bibimbap , ramen (which originally in japan) . AT first I didn't know food part or some cultures but my one korean friend who currently live in America said that in korea , japan kind of taboo but in the name of korea they use japanese products. The plot you are talking about are written in 80's , 90's in japanese.

[@LilacPeony3088]

@@knowitall1005 True , the dramas I thought was good are actually remake like mr queen from go princess go (chinese) , mother from mother (japan), vicenzo from "god father trilogy", My love from star from my man from 9th floor (hong kong) Scarlet heart:ryeo from bu bu jing Xin(china) , Alchemy of souls ( mashup of chinese wuxia genre and some similar to evernight) etc. So I stopped watching kdramas continuously . Fortunately I watch 23 countries series at the same time.

[@Goldie.Gwalinee]

Loved it, please bring more kpop stars and unravel more about kculture! And also, the attention to details and quality of content with extreme personal connection with fans treating them as a family is what makes them different and beautiful which can be a learning for Indian budding singers or dancers too.

[@knowitall1005]

Thats called unhealthy exploitation of " para social relationship "....if you dont know .and there is nothing good about that..kpop culture reauires that as each kpop group have limited market ..they arent enjoyed by neutral audience ..they have either fans or no one so they keep exploiting this " para social relationship " ..which is unhealthy at many levels according to every psychological study and research Its not like kpop idols do that on purpose..its how corporates and companies train them..thats how fan service are done etc..and as after many years its been normalised and became lart of culture so kpop idols think thats the right way to do it and a good isol should hive extra concern towards their fans...they arent artist but slaves of their companies and fans

[@stayhappy639]

Eric have put it out so well about why kpop bands are different than others.

[@mymots9840]

Eric Nam is such a real person... no pretense, no posturing. it was a great interview! i thoroughly enjoyed it! i'd love to see you interview Tablo. check out Tablo's life and experiences and i think you'd enjoy an interview with him. Choi Wooshik, the Korean actor, would be another that would be fascinating to see an interview of.

[@sofypi7493]

such a real zionist

[@mymots9840]

@@sofypi7493 Look. I am anti-ZIONism. But there are times when people need some slack and grace from others to learn. Personally, I feel that this is one of those times. People need to be given the opportunity to make mistakes and learn from them. No one is perfect. No one. This is what he wrote when he discovered that the post he clicked like on was causing controversy unlike his intentions: "Hi everyone - following the horrific events of October 7th, I liked a post that I believed expressed a position of anti-violence, anti-hate and was against intolerance. ‌ My liking of that post was a reaction to waking up to devastating news, as someone who has always been pro-human, pro-peace, and for love and equality for all. ‌ After that, I received threats related to my scheduled show in Kuala Lumpur. Out of an abundance of caution for my team and my fans, I made the difficult decision to cancel the show. ‌ My heart is broken for the Palestinian and Israeli families that have been ripped apart by violence and are facing unimaginable loss. Nothing I say can be enough when there is so much pain and suffering, but I am praying every day that there is peace and safety for everyone soon."

[@jalpatrivedi9245]

Yes definitely, you should go with international idols as they bring us great knowledge having cultural wisdom, go ahead, I really loved this one.

[@afrasaiyarafarooque1516]

I really enjoyed this podcast. I really appreciate the fact that you tried finding answers to the questions that have been there in different people's mind. And the way Eric Nam answered them, I loved it. It gave me a different perspective, a better way of thinking. Lastly, I would say I listen to your podcasts very often. Thanks for providing us with contents that are informative and help in understanding different perspectives ❤

[@Hvr_Jinie]

WHAT JUST APPEARED ON MY FEED. THIS IS SO UNEXPECTED!! ERIC On Podcast in India?!!!!?! Cant wait to see you in March! Come here, come soon!

[@subhadramahanta452]

Glad you invited him, thanks a lot! I was into kpop a lot a while back, it's good to have such talks. Feels actually like going global!

[@chorusofyourfavoritesong]

This THE craziest crossover I could never imagine!!! Loved it!!!!

[@sidranasir9737]

I don't know who he is but he really seems like a genuine person

[@nagajothi5906]

Wow… 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 I really like this podcast interview especially Eric Nam explained K Wave so well 👍🏻 Thanks for sharing with us (audience) as well good job.😊 through this Podcast I become Eric Nam’s Fan ❤ I mean He’s really good artist and his Music 🎶 good🫶🏻

[@rajshamani]

thank you for all the love & support🙌

[@Mallikarjun-g]

​@@rajshamani Sir in music we have categories carnatic, folk, pop, Bhangra, Bhajan we need new music in categories of Jazz, edm, metal, hip hop, flok, Rap, pop, EDM, Disco, Rock, Country, reggae to develop. Do a talk on this.

[@prithabrahma6051]

OMG! Eric is such a fun guy and got such good energy...loved the podcast...You are doing a great job here Raj

[@Zone4222]

Appreciable!

[@komal_ha]

You both were truly comfortable with each other, and we could sense it. We thoroughly enjoyed the show; I sincerely appreciate you for presenting this topic in an enjoyable manner rather than being serious.

[@btsarmyind-zt4ru]

this podcast amazing honestly I have never seen such a familiar environment please invite more international celebrity 💜💜💜💜 eagerly waiting for BTS 💜, Justin Bieber, Tylor shift, Selena Gomez, Halsey ,G dragon, jaction Wang,IU ........

[@koolmom9163]

Raj is such a patient listener… I wish other pod-casters learnt from him. He lets his guests speak-what a gift!!! Keep it up, Raj! You are doing so well❤

[@blackpinkspyongbong9834]

First I thought this was gonna be a really embarassing interview like some few American tv shows but the questions are actually so good genuine not at all disrespectful ❤

[@NICENAME-su9nh]

i don't mean this in a rude way just saying that he should've done some research about THAT Bts thing:)

[@blackpinkspyongbong9834]

@@NICENAME-su9nh I agree with you that part is actually a bit unnecessary like you could have just asked how kpop became big

[@tingtingball]

@@NICENAME-su9nhit sound mean but its his surprise as well That even a small silly looking thing can be that viral It takes time to understand Army mentality.. saying from experience 😅

[@Volo1]

@ME-su9nh true like he was taking bts under same rumours of artist being tortured and so many things when its reality is BTS made their company rich not company .BTS are not under anyone , they are known for their talents and inspiring songs and we have huge fd so charting and making records aren't that hard , we don't need to loop cuz we have enough fans to chart them .BTS are self made artists

[@EnjoyingLife2025AD]

I'm in America and just found this interview by accident. Well done! I've spent th least 4 months studying South Korea's expanding global influence. This video added to my research in a fun way.😊

[@chwenotchew8621]

Loveed it , plz do more. I felt Eric was slightly pissed where Raj asks about BTS (doing some random shit n they get millions of views ) and Eric did put that statementin a good way. Eric n BTS leader RM are good friends , so obviously he went into a defensive mode kind of. Also he is an artist at the end of the day so he wouldn't want to talk about toxicity in the kpop industry, but then I also agree to the fact that toxicity has been reduced as it used to be with 1st and 2nd gen artists. Overall Raj u did a good job , but please do a background check on artist. I hope you bring THE ROSE too , but then again SM wouldn't allow this.

[@shanayadhanrajgir]

The rose aren't under sm what💀

[@koolkayz3824]

They are not directly under any agency but partners with Transparent Art which is founded by Far East movement band member

[@stardust08]

it seems like he couldn't believe that BTS were underdogs

[@shanayadhanrajgir]

@@stardust08 ikr. Ppl need to understand kpop is so diverse with a very tough(?) and struggle-based functioning and esp for bts it was even more tough

[@colourpurples9152]

In this social media generation its completely normal for a random funny video of a random stranger to get millions of likes, its considered completely normal when a random egg 🥚 picture gets millions of likes for no damn reason but how dare a bts fan laughed at a random vidoe of a member falling down the stairs and giving it millions of likes lol how is this strange that bts who have millions of fans who knows them and loves them have millions of likes on their funny videos, if this is considered strange then random animal videos or random funny vidoe of strangers having millions of likes should be considered strange as well.. These people try to ridicule bts and armys at any given opportunity as if bts are just some untalented artists who become famous out of nowhere, they literally worked their @ss off to have all this success without having any privileged background or support, they came here on their own hard work with alot of struggles, their music is amazing, they make good use of their art and talent and spread good message through their music not just the typical random love breakup songs, write and produce their own music, they're literally such good musicians like anything u ask from a good artist, they have it yet somehow it itches people for no damn reason like they can't resist ridiculing them or judging them for whatever reason we still don't know

[@kathylyons2106]

Great interview! I started with K dramas, found Kpop and decided to learn Korean. I love Stray Kids. Can you interview them? I'm a 67 year old fan ( STAY) of this group for way more than their music. Eric was right. These groups are a family and they value their fans.

[@swatipunia15]

You know when Eric Nam starts talking you're hooked❤

[@rianarai8839]

so fucking true 🔥💖💖

[@mayasharma7048]

Please do such episodes more! Thanks for this one!

[@meghnachaturvedi607]

Great podcast!!! Enjoyed it a lot

[@AwkwardCompilations]

me too chaturvedi

[@culinairekruispunt]

So nice to see people in your podcasts with different backgrounds, different jobs, different lifestyles and the wisdom and knowledge we as an audience can get inspired by with⭐. A beautiful and wonderful podcast and I learned a lot. Thanks a lot Mr. Raj

[@Amy-mf4gd]

You are incredible Eric nam !! Love from India !! PS - My heart 🥰 everytime he mentioned BTS 💜

[@trinaragland8479]

Im 58, and I enjoy K-pop and k-dramas. I love Eric's music, and I am a big fan of BTS and several others. I wanted to see his concert when he played in Virginia but was not able to due to work. I would love for him to play in North Carolina close to me. He has such a wonderful personality and I enjoy his music so much that I have all of his songs on my Playlist ❤ I have to say this as well, he is sooo handsome ❤️ Awesome young man ❤

[@oum0]

Reasons why BTS have blasted - theyyyy r super duper talentedddddddddddd - the reason I got connected to them was like they r sooo raw like they were raw n pure and amaazinggggg just Talented people who r goood humaaanss Their songssss r. luv Their dance Their rap Their music Their personality Their bondddddd Their showss Themmmm together or alone they r justtt so talented and they have seed a lottttttt of struggles they had their fairrr share of struggle And it hurts when people just talks rubbish just becoz of their appearance mike just ship n see their work first 💜💜💜💜

[@LilacPeony3088]

Man sorry to interrupt you , the struggle parts you are exaggerating . Maximum ppl are struggling in the world. One weird thing I notice about kpop that their company purposely show 24 hours of idols anything like how to sleep, how to eat etc. I once saw an foreign artist interview in where she was ra***d at the age of 13 and her parents sold her and she was homeless , begging , last option she chose to be prostitute to stay alive and find an opportunities and become successful. In whole conversation I never heard her telling she struggled a lot. She even told "I can't call it struggle , if we can't hard work for our dream then we are not worthy to call an artist" really nice words and as woman she never find sympathy for her life but thankful to start a new.

[@ranjanasahu9552]

​@@LilacPeony3088 their struggle is something inspiration from people's likes BTS who's come from small places some come from villages,they joined broken bankrupt company., they save a the company their own when they're going to disband almost.. when you didn't know about BTS please don't talk about them coz I'm not going to waste my time on you...if you wants to knows about BTS or why they're the only inspiration for K-pop groups knows about BTS first...😊

[@LilacPeony3088]

@@ranjanasahu9552Bro, I am watching them from their debut , I know about way too much. I have no problem with them but their fans are too much , I mean really. I like them as an artists but their fans forget that there are so many artists who are also struggle but why they ignore that facts and always say "better than original", "They 100% never know them" etc these types of remarks . It's not good though. Respect all artists equally. I am old listener from 2010 or 11 i can't say exact time. I even know from where their samples come from and how seo taiji fusion american and japanese songs together to create kpop.

[@ranjanasahu9552]

@@LilacPeony3088 I think it's same applies to others they're literally forcing us to support other K-pop groups it's about all music tastes... even if BTS winning awards other fans behave like we're doing crimes like we're working hard to votes them in everything day night supporting.. when we're in our bad situation BTS helps make us to believe on our self tried to say love yourself, speak for yourself , don't give up, everyone comes out of depression coz of BTS how can we left them it's up to us who we need to support.. but we're forced or hated just coz we're BTS army or supporting BTS ...they don't even votes for their favourite artists or beg us to vote for their favourite instead of BTS recently... it's become daily life routine for them they're the same person who're hating BTS or us but suddenly BTS went military training they changed or asking us to join their fandom' or leave BTS or support or votes for their favourite.. BTS always being themselves from Starting but they hide their pain their depression, they always hided their tears their injuries, they always like to pretend they're okay, they always say we're okay big liar, we always felt they're lying deep down we waited for them to reveal everything from themselves they did they accepted they're not okay..🥲...the real facts we related with them ... I'm happy they have privacy where we never tried to interfere not like obsessed idiots..

[@ranjanasahu9552]

@@LilacPeony3088 if you clearly talk about BTS or other artists struggle their is huge gaps 🙂... I don't wanna talk about this if I start it's not going to stop...

[@klmbs67]

Western artists also have huge fan groups who care about the same things Eric Nam spoke about-the artists well being, the artist’s family, the artist’s endeavors, etc. in fact, this goes back many decades with Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, the Beatles, the Eagles, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, etc. this is the nature of a fandom across the world.

[@Sebentinarmy]

Apart from the topic i wanted to mention... Someone saying that male need to stop spreading hate against BTS . Yeah,that's correct, but as an ARMY myself , i want to say that "many" ARMYs need to learn to behave. Everything is not about BTS . In my eyes, ARMYs are also responsible for that hate otherwise i have seen boys listening to their music and also following other groups.

[@ClutchGod439]

India Mai bts ko mostly hate unki immature fanbase ki wajah se milti hai jo social media pr faltu ki hate & toxicity spread krte hai dusre groups artist ko disrespect krte hai unhe bts se compare krte hai bts ko superior bolte hai baki groups ko flop just because vo globally popular nhi hai jab ye log dusro ke idols ki insult krte hai fir ye ummid kaise kr skte hai ki samne wala Banda tumhare idol's ki respect krega..?? mere friend circle mai koi bhi ladka bts ko hate nhi krta or naa he unpe homophobic jokes crack krte hai unhe bhi bs bts ke toxic fanbase se problem hai or India ke mostly boys ka answer same he hoga bs kuch % honge jo unhe gay trans bolte hai sab aise nhi hote

[@KrishanJha-br5gj]

@VishuZ1 Gau maa hai...unhone apna meetha doodh pilaya hai....unka debt hai mere upar..

[@KrishanJha-br5gj]

@VishuZ1 Narak mei chali jaayege....phir pakode banenge tere....

[@KrishanJha-br5gj]

@VishuZ1 Arey narak chali jayege.....phir waha pakode ban jaayege tere.....Abhi bhi time hai sudhar jaa

[@sanjana1114]

used to be in kpop as a teenager when it wasnt so famous as it is rn, its refreshing to see a indian influencer having a genuine conversation with a korean american artisit!!

[@pdp.poulamidaspramanick]

Thanks for having Eric . That was a real deep and insightful conversation , absolutely loved it ❤

[@rajshamani]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@shagunsandhu2746]

Eric nam is an articulate speaker and a good human with good music

[@pavithrabalasubramanian7344]

I wish more people watch this video, especially those people who spew hate about K-pop and K-culture and idols without knowing the whole story. We should get inspired from people around us, not spread hatred.

[@KrishanJha-br5gj]

They eat mother cow....

[@parijashinde279]

wow ERICC!!!! the way you've said it, i know it won't happen but i hope mny people who just simply hate kpop, and judge kpop bcs of some random dude who entered in BB, understand what the kpop culture is and learn to respect it.

[@SrishtiAgrawal-qb5xr]

yes you are right 99 percent people we know who he is that is why we came to see him.

[@sumi78456]

I love Eric so much 😭😭😭 one of the nicest people I’ve seen in Kpop and I’ve been a kpop fan for a long time

[@zaidamelendez9095]

I love Eric Nam!! He is so smart and has an amazing voice. His interviews are great. He is so humble and sincere. It’s true what he said about BTS. People love them because they care about their fans so much. They worked so hard and have gone through so many hardships to get to where they are now. It was not easy. Army is an international community and they welcome any new fan too. They are supportive and love BTS. I am an Army since 2015 and I am 67. Not all the fans are teens. Army is the name of the fan group. Look up videos about how they became the Kings of K-POP!! So talented, humble and kind.

[@VinayVerma-i9b]

My respect for Eric Nam increased even more after watching this interview. He sounds like a genius. He handled everything very well, his explanation was amazing.

[@shanna007]

I luv ERIC NAM ... BUT am here for BTS....bcz I saw the small clips of BTS in reel. 💜💜💜💜

[@najmussaherOT7]

I don't understand when it comes to BTS why ppl try to show them overrated like wdym a member tripping over stair-case gets millions of views like do you live in stone age or what, even a dog barking at another can get more than a million views these days like I wanna know how would you explain that instagram egg post which literally have the most LIKES not even views.. god that's actually irritating of these interviewers.. like eric literally said in this interview only that he's an independent artist that too in states yet they gotta bring BTS in the conversation and I think we all know why.. and I really appreciate Eric for explaining in such a nice way and handling it really well, I've always respected Eric and will always do. these ppl who hate on BTS are like we wanna get loved for the content we made thousands of years ago and then proceed to ask why don't we have fans like army and then proceed to spread hate on BTS about how they're overrated and inorganic and all.. nahh bro they ain't, they got the talent, they worked really hard to reach where they are now and are still truly hard working and ready to put effort on their own works, on the collabs, on the features and ever ready to help other artists and respect everyone as well and along with that they love their fans, I mean rn all of them are in military yet one of them releasing a fan song just to comfort fans not for any charts and all, and this is why we show our love and support towards them with the very same energy.. bhaiya ko BTS ko overrated and inorganic bhi batana hai, bhaiya BTS k naam pe views bhi chahiye, aise kaise chalega bhaiya ji And Ik really well ppl who will go through this comment of mine are gonna label me as "t0xIC" for calling this out.. fine babe go ahead coz I'm not really gonna stop calling everyone out who tries to demean my idols hard work all these years

[@colourpurples9152]

Nothing wrong with ur comment here and if someone calls u 'toxic' for it then let it be, aren't we all already used to being called 'toxic' and all sorts of names for simple breathing, atp armys have adapted and embraced the word toxic like we own it lol but what u said I logical, if a random egg picture can get millions of likes, if a random funny video of a random stranger on social media van get millions of likes and its completely normal then how come u question it when bts who have millions of fans who knows them and love them gets millions of likes on a random video of a member falling from stairs, we can't enjoy or laugh at a funny video of our faves without being judged but its completely normal to laugh at a random stranger or liking a random egg picture

[@colourpurples9152]

@@khanhina4450 nope, he's friends with bts, the comment is talking about the host

[@Seoyeaji921]

​​@@colourpurples9152some fans are indeed toxic it what it is.

[@colourpurples9152]

@@Seoyeaji921 he's not talking about toxic fandoms, that's another common issue with kpop fans but he's just ridiculing fans and bts for no damn reason, do u not watch funny kpop videos? How is this anything different from random funny reels having millions of views and likes, it's social media, u put anything on social media it will automatically gain millions of views and likes

[@ranjanasahu9552]

​@@Seoyeaji921true fact 💯 I'm tired of them seriously 😒 just now I watched a video where Nibbie armies throwing tantrums when indian 19s singer don't know about BTS coz mostly 19s singers don't know they even don't know about western singers can you blame her not everyone knows about BTS coz that person is not active person in social media... even that admin did it on purpose to spread hates towards BTS or look down to them or get views... they're not praising that indian Singer who she beat BTS, instead of appreciating or praising they're looking down on BTS but armies triggered like damn

[@suhanipal4565]

Love how Eric talked about the years of consistent investment in soft power by south korea since 90s. India is just starting to do this investing in cultural centres like nmacc..inviting global icons like gigi hadid, tom holland etc. But we have a long way to go because india is not as big of consumer market like korea because of wealth disparity.

[@장주인백]

😍🥰❤️‍🔥에릭과 한국에 관심을 가져주셔서 감사합니다. 에릭남은 한국이 사랑하는 보물입니다.❤🙏❤

[@rupalikumar2021]

That's a great podcast with excellent questions! Eric you the best! Kudos Raj!

[@NidritaSengupta]

Amazing Podcast 😊

[@rajshamani]

Glad you enjoyed it!