
Audio By Carbonatix
Psy's new song, "Gentleman," has confirmed he's more than a one-hit wonder -- the music video already has 244 million views on YouTube since debuting two weeks ago.So it makes sense that South Korea is using the gyrating dance-pop sensation for publicity abroad.Psy has been tapped as South Korea's tourism ambassador and has just finished taping a series of TV commercials to show off the country, according to the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO).He's certainly a better fit than the former spokesman -- Kenny G, the curly-haired American saxophonist, has held the honorary ambassadorship since October 2012.DutiesAccording to the KTO, Psy will hold the honorary position for approximately a year. He held the same post for Seoul's Gangnam district last year.In the new commercials, which will air in 70 countries beginning next month, the comedic singer helps showcase things to eat and do and places to visit in South Korea, such as the late-night shopping district of Dongdaemun and "Cosmetic Road" in downtown Myeongdong, known for its rows of flashy makeup shops.Social marketing"We have been looking for ways to tap into new media like social marketing and YouTube, and since Psy has become a world star that way it made sense," said Kang Jong-soon of KTO's brand marketing team."Through him, we're trying to introduce the more modern and fun Korean cultural concepts such as bul-gum," said Kang.Loosely translated to "Fiery Fridays," bul-gum is the Korean equivalent of the West's "TGIF" sentiment and is the oft-cited excuse to drink large volumes of soju on Friday nights.Psy accepted minimal payment for the gig. Officially representing South Korea was meaningful work, he said.He'll be traveling in style too: earlier this month, Asiana Airlines announced that Psy would be its honorary brand ambassador for a year.He gets free tickets to the highest-class seats on any Asiana flight for the year.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Tags:
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Latest Stories
-
I do not take any pride in prosecuting people if they have done no wrong – Mahama
1 second -
Uganda suspends school trips after 20 pupils die in bus crash
3 minutes -
Fire destroys wooden structures at Ofankor, no injuries recorded
3 minutes -
Father arrested over alleged sexual exploitation of 16-year-old daughter
14 minutes -
Deputy Health Minister advocates transparent, merit-based admissions into health training institutions
17 minutes -
Two arrested as driver, mate are found dead in hotel at Nkawkaw
17 minutes -
I don’t have full control over galamsey hotspots due to police jurisdiction disputes – Juaben MCE
18 minutes -
Iran accuses US of hitting civilian infrastructure
23 minutes -
Queiroz can build stronger Black Stars capable of competing at AFCON and World Cup – Mahama
31 minutes -
Richie Mensah launches Orbra, a life operating system created for the masterminds community
38 minutes -
‘A true miracle of destiny’ – Messi and Lamine Yamal’s incredible first meeting
41 minutes -
Mahama delivers medical equipment to Ho District Hospital to boost Free Primary Healthcare programme
55 minutes -
Beads, not screens: How Ancient Abacus is rescuing Ghana’s children from digital distraction
1 hour -
MPs must put Ghana ahead of party loyalty and personal ambition – Justice Atuguba
1 hour -
Police end rescue efforts for more victims of fatal Odumase accident
1 hour