Hey Kim Jong-un, are you feeling homesick bro? This visit may be the furthest you've been away from home as the leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Don't have a legion of The Korean People's Army at your beck and call or craving for some cool Taedonggang lager? Well, we can’t help you—nor the Pyeongyang cold noodles—but how about some familiar sounds from home to ease you into your talk with President Trump today? Or if the background music played at the manicured gardens of Capella, Sentosa is migraine-inducing, then maybe these tunes would be great for site inspections along Orchard Road.
1. 'Arirang – North Korean version.' (아리랑) — Unknown/Traditional
A traditional folk song which became an 'unofficial' national anthem known to the entire Korean peninsula, this song was one of few cross-cultural artistic exchanges between the U.S. and the DPRK when the New York Philharmonic Orchestra performed as an encore at their only performance in Pyongyang in 2008. A soft power that bodes well for the two countries. And to remind Trump that culture shouldn't be ignored.
2. 'The Maze of Love' (사랑의 미로) — Choi Jin Hee
You may have listened to this when you were young. Choi, a South Korean songstress, performed in the DPRK multiple times and her 1984 hit song 'Love Maze' was reported to be a favourite of your late father, Kim Jong Il.
3. 'Please Let the Snow Fall on New Years Day' (설눈아 내려라) — The Moranbong Band
Known as the North Korean equivalent to Girls Generation and Spice Girls, the all-female Moranbong Band that debuted in July 2012 has garnered popularity with their synthesized uptempo patriotic songs. NK-EDM FTW!
4. 'Cafe of the Winter' (그겨울의찻집) — Cho Yong Pil
A respected veteran South Korean singer, Cho performed at the inter-Korea summit back in March and your late father Kim Jong-il was a fan of the crooner too. How about a tête-à-tête with Trump after the serious talks?
5. 'The Whistle Song' (휘파람) — Jeon Hye Yeong
This North Korean pop song appeared on a South Park episode, 'Put it Down' and a dead-ringer for Abba's 'Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!'. 'Nuff said. We know you secretly like disco, as seen from the signature wide pants you've worn, Mr Kim.
