KT&G (CEO Baek Bok-In) is now accepting applications for the ‘2024 Band Discovery,’ a contest aimed at discovering and supporting talented indie musicians, until April 12th.

Now in its 15th year, ‘Band Discovery’ is a cultural contribution program initiated by KT&G Sangsang Madang in 2007 to uncover and support potential indie musicians. To date, it has selected a total of 89 teams, providing substantial benefits such as prize money, single album production, and performance opportunities to foster their growth into established musicians. This program has successfully launched numerous skilled musicians into the industry, including the four-member indie band Thornapple and alternative rock band The Vane, solidifying its reputation as a gateway for emerging musicians.

This year's contest is open to new musicians who debuted after 2018 and have released at least three original songs. After a document review and online competition, the final two selected teams will each receive a prize of 5 million KRW and benefits totaling 8 million KRW, the highest ever, including album production costs. Additionally, they will have the opportunity to participate in joint performances with established musicians and in concerts organized by Sangsang Madang.

Detailed information and application instructions for the ‘2024 Band Discovery’ will be available from March 11th on the KT&G Sangsang Madang website (https://www.sangsangmadang.com) and the official Instagram account (@ssmadang.official).

Kim Cheon-beom, the head of the Performance Division at KT&G's Cultural Contributions Department, stated, ＂Through ‘Band Discovery,’ we have provided opportunities for promising new musicians to showcase their music to the public. As Korea's leading multi-cultural arts space, KT&G Sangsang Madang will continue to contribute to the expansion of the cultural and arts base and regional cultural development through a variety of programs, including performances and exhibitions.＂

Meanwhile, KT&G Sangsang Madang is a multi-cultural arts space that supports the creative activities of emerging artists and offers the public a wide range of cultural experiences. Since launching ‘Sangsang Madang Hongdae’ in 2007, it has expanded to operate in five locations, including Nonsan, Chuncheon, Daechi, and Busan, contributing to the expansion of the cultural and arts base and regional cultural development. Sangsang Madang welcomes about 3 million visitors annually, with over 3,000 cultural and arts programs operated each year.

(Photo Description) Recruitment poster for the ‘2024 Band Discovery’