Output Busan celebrates 8-year milestone this weekend
The club is the result of owner Minho Kim’s vision for a space that could “add depth and sensitivity to Busan’s urban life”
This Saturday, August 16, Output Busan will celebrate its eighth anniversary with a line-up of local talent from both Busan and Seoul, including Fhifan, Jamiest, Kyo, and Taeri Kim, alongside Seoul’s scene-shapers DJ Jinwook and Radio Revolution.
As one of South Korea’s most resilient underground venues, Output marks this milestone with a night that highlights the unity and strength of Busan’s club culture.
Hidden between alleyways and tucked away in a basement at the heart of Busan, Output has become a vital hub in the city for underground music and culture—and arguably the most influential venue outside Seoul.
Since opening its doors in the summer of 2017, the club has withstood years of economic difficulty and cultural indifference, from pandemic lockdowns to the slow but steady growth of electronic music in the region.
“In South Korea, Output has become a symbol of resilience in Busan’s nightlife,” says Minho Kim aka KIMMINBOWUNICORNDOM, owner of Output.
The club is the result of Minho Kim’s vision for a space that could “add depth and sensitivity to Busan’s urban life”.
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Rooted in a philosophy that values musical experimentation and creative freedom, Output welcomes those who defy convention while supporting new collectives, emerging scenes, and lasting connections.
In March, the venue hosted a SCR Soundsystem night with DJ Bowlcut, Vinyl Richie and others. In October 2024, it held Synth Queens, spotlighting five local Busan female DJs. Both events highlight Output’s commitment to supporting and uniting its community.
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“Before Output, Busan lacked cultural diversity,” says DJ Oenn, who's known to perform regularly at the space.
He continues: “Since Output was established, it has significantly influenced the circulation of opportunities for artists from Busan, Seoul, and beyond. New artists have debuted at this club, collaborated, and shared stages and energy.”
Despite its modest size and location outside the capital’s spotlight, Output has hosted internationally respected artists like French DJ, producer, and photographer DJ Falco, Tunisia's HearThuG, and numerous other experimental curators from Tokyo, Bangkok, Berlin, and most recently, Jakarta’s Kimoji.
The eighth anniversary not only honours Output’s past but also shines a hopeful future; both for the club and the next generation of artists rising from Busan.
[Images via STILLM45]
Daniela Solano is a freelance writer for Mixmag Asia, follow her on Instagram here.
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