South Korean rapper and singer-songwriter Psy, best known for his global hit “Gangnam Style,” received an honorary degree from Yonsei University in Seoul on Monday, giving a speech in which he stressed personal fulfillment over the pursuit of conventional success.
"After doing the same job for 25 years, I’ve come to realize that there’s a difference between success and fulfillment," the star, 47, whose real name is Park Jae-sang, told the graduating class, during a commencement ceremony at Yonsei University’s main campus in Seoul’s Seodaemun-gu.
Reflecting on his career, Psy admitted to occasional feelings of self-doubt. "I sometimes wonder if anyone has ever been this overrated for this long," he joked. "Success is finite — it eventually fades. But fulfillment is limitless. Success is something you consume, while fulfillment is something you keep."
To illustrate, he pointed to his 2002 hit “Champion.” "People don’t remember chart rankings years later. But when someone born in 2002 sings this song from 2002, that’s not just success — that’s fulfillment."
Embracing individuality in K-pop
Psy also spoke about standing out in the competitive K-pop industry.
"I knew early on I wouldn’t be the best," he said. "So instead of trying to be 'number one,' I focused on being a 'one and only.' If people think, ‘If Psy is there, it’ll be fun,’ then I’ve found my place."
Encouraging the graduates to embrace their individuality, he emphasized the importance of self-awareness. He redefined the Korean phrase "juje pahak" ― which translates to "grasping the subject," but can have the negative connotation of "knowing your place" ― as a positive tool for success.
"In Korea as we grow up, we often hear 'juje pahak' in a discouraging way," he said. "But I see it differently. If you truly understand yourself, you can avoid making embarrassing mistakes."
Yonsei University honored Psy not only for his musical achievements but also for his role in globalizing K-pop and for his philanthropic contributions.
"Psy helped bring K-pop to the world with 'Gangnam Style' and beyond. He has also supported social causes, including a 500 million won ($350,000) donation to Yonsei University Severance Children’s Hospital in 2014," the university stated.
Since 2023, Psy has also served as a distinguished professor at the Yonsei Institute of the Arts, mentoring young artists.
Debuting in 2001 with Bird, he became known for his high-energy performances and unique style. His career skyrocketed in 2012 with "Gangnam Style," making him the first South Korean artist to reach No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. He won the Billboard Music Award for Top Streaming Song (Video) in 2013, cementing his place in global pop culture.
mjh@heraldcorp.com
