A memorial monument ceremony for the late Kim Hong-tak (May 13, 1944 – December 7, 2024), a pioneer of Korean rock music, will be held tomorrow, May 13, 2025, at 11 a.m. in Jindeung Village, Unseo-dong, Jung-gu, Incheon, at the Gimhae Kim Clan’s family shrine. The ceremony is expected to be a meaningful gathering to commemorate his profound impact on Korean popular music history and celebrate his life’s achievements.
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Born in Jemulpo, Incheon, Kim Hong-tak made his mark in 1959 by forming the legendary rock band “Key Boys,” where he played as a guitarist. In 1967, after leaving the band, he was recommended by Jo Yong-nam to form a new group in 1968 with Han Woong (keyboard), Yoo Young-chun (vocals), and Kim Yong-ho (drums). That group, “Hi-Five,” gained popularity with songs like Meadow, Dreaming Love, and Hey Jude before disbanding in 1970.
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In 1970, Kim co-founded “Hi-Six” with Jo Yong-nam, Kwon Yong-nam, Lee Young-deok, and Kim Yong-joong, releasing the title track Love of the Meadow. Unlike Hi-Five, which focused on covers and externally composed songs, Hi-Six showcased Kim’s own compositions such as How Love Comes. That same year, Hi-Six won top honors at the 2nd Vocal Group Contest, even outperforming the Key Boys. In 1971, he brought in Myongji University student Choi Hun and released another record.
After relocating to the United States in 1972, Kim returned to Korea in the early 1990s and released an album titled Teacher Dad and Me with his son, Yoo Young-chun. In 1996, he founded the Seoul Jazz Academy, dedicating himself to music education. Kim passed away from lung cancer on December 7, 2024, at the age of 80.
Tomorrow’s ceremony will include a simple worship service, music, and refreshments, allowing attendees to share memories and pay tribute to the artist’s life and legacy. Organizers have prepared the event with care, requesting attendees to RSVP for dining arrangements.
One guest noted, “As someone who lived through Korea’s early rock era, remembering Kim Hong-tak is both a duty and an honor. Tomorrow’s gathering will be a heartfelt tribute to his contributions to music and our lives.”
This event will not only commemorate a beloved musician but also honor the roots of Korean rock and its cultural significance.
[ 김현수 기자 incheoeast@thekoreantoday.com ]
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