PENOMECO, a producer and artist, is gaining renewed attention internationally as Netflix's "Squid Game" Season 2 continues to dominate globally. Courtesy of EGO GROUP
Yang Dong-geun's featuring on ‘BOLO’ resurfaces with ‘Squid Game’ buzz
By KTimes
Producer and artist PENOMECO is experiencing a resurgence in popularity with his 2021 track "BOLO" from the second season of Netflix’s "Squid Game." The unexpected boost comes from the revelation that cast member Yang Dong-geun (YDG) featured on the song, turning it into a viral hit.
Originally released in August 2021 as part of PENOMECO’s single album "Organic," the Afrobeat-inspired track "BOLO (feat. YDG)" is now gaining traction in countries like France, Germany and the U.K.
Following its first revival in 2023, the song has surged again after the second season of "Squid Game" premiered last month. Its renewed attention is attributed to Yang’s role in the series and the song’s viral spread on social platforms, drawing domestic and international interest.
The track has achieved notable chart success, ranking No. 1 on iTunes' K-pop charts in the U.K., Canada and India, and securing spots at No. 2, No. 3 and No. 4 in France, the U.S. and Germany, respectively. On Spotify’s viral charts, it topped in Switzerland, placed third in Germany and ranked fourth in France.
Fans have shared their amazement online, commenting, “It’s incredible that YDG in this track is the same person as Player 007 in 'Squid Game 2'” and “This song is so underrated.”
With this growing attention, the music video for "BOLO" has gained over 2 million additional views.
"BOLO" is praised for its addictive beat and melody, complemented by Yang’s charisma enhancing the song’s overall appeal. During its previous revival in 2023, it charted high in countries like France, Greece and India, with its music video surpassing 10 million views.
Meanwhile, PENOMECO continues to solidify his position as a leading Afrobeat artist. His latest album, "Organic 2," released last year, has also made waves on global music charts, earning acclaim from listeners worldwide.
This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.
English (United States) ·