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Dubai: The growing wave of k-pop’s popularity in the Middle East continues to create exciting opportunities for artists and fans. And the most recent event, the opening of Korea 360, saw Gaho perform for the first time ever, for his fans in Dubai on April 11, at Grand Hyatt Dubai. From powerful Original Soundtracks (OSTs) to some very energetic solo tracks, the Korean artist performed a number of his hits which had fans on their feet.
The 27-year-old artist performed hits like Start Over an OST from the popular drama Itaewon Class, and more, including a cover of the viral song, APT by Rose of Blackpink featuring Bruno Mars. In an exclusive interview with Gulf News , the singer spoke about his music making process, his connection with Dubai and his wish to come back to the emirate for his own solo concert. Also In This Package Exclusive: EXO’s Chen performs in Dubai K-pop boy group CIX's first-ever performance in Dubai Meet Red C, the rock duo from South Korea BTS and Blackpink dominate AMA nominations 2025 How is your first time in Dubai so far? It’s my first time visiting Dubai in my life, and I’m really looking forward to performing for the fans here.
I’ve always wanted to visit Dubai because my closest friend from school used to live here. So, I had only heard about Dubai through him and not that I’m actually here to perform, it feels quite new and exciting. How does your song writing process go? I really love watching movies, appreciating art, and indulging in visual storytelling like novels, and I guess that has led me to enjoy imagining things.
And I tend to write many of my songs from that world of imagination. I spend a lot of time alone, taking walks by myself, practicing singing and it is in those solitary moments when a lot of my music comes to life. What’s the biggest lesson you learned since stepping out as a solo artist? I’ve been working as a solo artist for seven years now, since my debut, and there are some fun aspects to it.
One of the benefits is that it’s simple – you just have to rely on yourself. As long as I write good songs and do well on my own, everything goes smoothly. Traveling is easier with the staff too.
But when I see artists in groups, I do feel a bit envious – it looks fun. Whether in k-pop or beyond it, who inspires you? Since I really enjoy grand, powerful songs, I try to bring explosive energy to my performances. I’ve heard other singers say they’re inspired by my vocal power, which I really appreciate.
Personally, I think I get a lot of inspiration from band rock performances. I especially love the rock band Imagine Dragons. Their sound is so massive, and their vocals are beastly and powerful.
I think I’ve been greatly influenced by that, and I try to infuse that kind of energy into my own music. The singer and songwriter went on to mention his stay in Dubai and how he wished to “come back to Dubai again” as he would be “even more experienced, and do even better on stage.”.
