NewJeans' Hani Revives 'Blue Coral Reef', Captivating Both Korean and Japanese Audiences
Hani of the K-pop group NewJeans continues to make waves with her rendition of Seiko Matsuda's 1980 hit 'Blue Coral Reef' (青い珊瑚礁). Her performance at a recent Japanese fan meeting has not only stirred nostalgia among older generations but has also climbed music charts in both Korea and Japan, capturing the ears of listeners across generations.
Chart Performance and Popularity
- The song climbed from 828th to 142nd place on Melon's daily chart within a week
- Hani's fancam of the performance has garnered over 5.41 million views on YouTube
- The song trended on social media platforms in both Japan and Korea
The Performance that Sparked a Sensation
Hani performed 'Blue Coral Reef' at NewJeans' fan meeting at the Tokyo Dome on June 26th and 27th. Her unique interpretation of the song, combined with her K-pop idol charm, electrified the Japanese audience and reignited interest in the classic tune.
Impact in Japan
"Hani's stage received the biggest cheers during the fan meeting," reported Oricon Music. "Even after the performance, the excitement lingered, enveloping Tokyo Dome in euphoria."
Cultural Significance of 'Blue Coral Reef'
Originally released by Seiko Matsuda in 1980, 'Blue Coral Reef' became a phenomenon in Japan. The song represents the golden era just before the collapse of Japan's bubble economy in the 1980s. Hani's 2024 rendition has reignited memories of this prosperous time for many Japanese listeners.
Cross-Cultural Appeal
While the song evokes nostalgia in Japan, it presents a fresh charm to Korean audiences. This dual appeal has led to the song's rising popularity in both countries, bridging generations and cultures through music.
