Japanese band Penthouse brings City Soul to Korea in first solo concert in December after filling Budokan

The twist behind Penthouse, a University of Tokyo band: Korea debut set for Dec. 19

Music born in an academic cradle sets its sights on Korean listeners

Japan’s standout “City Soul” band “Penthouse” is finally set to take the Korean stage. Concert promoter “Private Curve” officially announced on the 25th that the band’s first solo concert in Korea will be held Dec. 19 at “YES24 Live Hall” in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul. Its sophisticated groove, which goes beyond ordinary pop, has drawn attention across Korea’s music industry.

The six-member “Penthouse” pioneered its own genre, “City Soul,” by intricately weaving soulful vocals with an urban city-pop sound. In a formulaic music market, the band’s intricate arrangements and explosive musicianship have won acclaim from critics and audiences alike.

The band’s trajectory has been unusual from the start. Its members came together through the music club at “the University of Tokyo”, Japan’s most prestigious university, and made their professional debut in 2021 with their first EP, “Living Room” (Living Room). In March this year, they successfully held a solo concert with about 13,000 seats at “Nippon Budokan”, known as a mecca of Japanese popular music, demonstrating ticket-drawing power that surpassed the usual limits of an indie band.

The band’s first concert in Korea is expected to distill its musical essence into one stage. The varied set list will feature key tracks from its recently released full-length album, “Neon Garden” (Neon Garden), as well as its previous hits, meeting the high expectations of Korean fans.