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Former Blackpink producer R.Tee launches new electronic label, RTST

The K-pop hitmaker aims to give electronic music a more “familiar, accessible presence” in the country

  • Daniela Solano
  • 5 September 2025
Former Blackpink producer R.Tee launches new electronic label, RTST

Kim Jung-gu, better known in the K-pop world as R.Tee, is embarking on a new musical chapter.

In July 2025, he launched RTST Label, an electronic music imprint aimed at making the genre more accessible in Korea through his productions and collaborations.

R.Tee, the producer behind Blackpink’s hits 'Pink Venom', 'How You Like That', and Lisa’s global single 'Money', recently concluded a decade-long partnership with label and entertainment company, The Black Label.

"It might sound a bit overblown, but my goal is to create cultural content in Korea that gives electronic music that same kind of familiar, accessible presence so that more people can enjoy it comfortably," he explained in The Korea Herald.

First single 'Damdadi', featuring a vocal collaboration from South Korean girl group (G)I-DLE’s lead singer, fuses R.Tee’s electronic influences with elements more familiar to K-pop audiences.

"'Damdadi' was written in April last year, and I wrote more than 20 songs trying to come up with something better, but I couldn't. So, I think people will like this song," he said.

Read this next: The next phase of K-pop evolution: a genuine approach or an appropriation of genres?

Following that release, R.Tee dropped his groovetech-leaning track 'Switch Out' in mid-August, accompanied by a fully animated, sci-fi-inspired music video.

R.Tee’s efforts comes at a time when Korean electronic music and its artists are receiving growing international recognition, with underground figures such as ffan, Maktoop, and Mogwaa gaining attention.

Read this next: Watch: ‘Enter the K-Bass’ panel puts Seoul’s scene in focus at SXSW London

Peggy Gou has played undoubtedly played a prominent role, founding Gudu Records in 2019, continuously collaborating with regional and international producers, plus performing at major festivals including Coachella, ADE, and Primavera Sound.

Speaking to Mixmag Asia, Jeyon Park, DJ under the label 8BallTown and owner of the club Modeci, notes that one of the biggest challenges for new electronic labels in Korea is consistency.


He explains: "I believe consistency is important, as it takes time to convey the identity of a record label and the direction it pursues. Since club/electronic music in Korea cannot really be considered something enjoyed by the majority, I believe that patience, together with building exchanges with musicians around the world who share a similar style, is also essential".

Via: The Korea Herald

Daniela Solano is a freelance writer for Mixmag Asia, follow her on Instagram here.

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