In a recent episode of KBS World’s “World-Class K-Dol,” K-pop sensation Itzy embarked on a cultural exploration of Indonesia, undertaking a series of challenges designed to immerse them in the country’s vibrant traditions and culinary delights. A highlight of the episode revolved around the group’s playful rendition of “Kopi Dangdut,” a popular Indonesian dangdut song by Fahmi Shahab. This musical challenge injected a dose of lighthearted competition into the cultural exchange, with the members vying for the privilege of selecting their preferred Indonesian dishes. The stakes were high, as the best performer would have first choice from an array of tantalizing options, while the last singer standing would have to accept the remaining dish. This element of playful rivalry added a layer of anticipation and amusement to the episode, showcasing Itzy’s competitive spirit while simultaneously fostering a deeper appreciation for Indonesian music and cuisine.
The five members – Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryeong, and Yuna – each took their turn at the microphone, attempting to master the nuances of “Kopi Dangdut,” a genre known for its distinctive rhythmic patterns and energetic vocals. The girls’ evident enthusiasm for the song, coupled with their earnest efforts to pronounce the lyrics correctly, resonated with viewers. Yeji, in particular, expressed her admiration for the opening line, declaring it “awesome.” This candid reaction underscored the group’s genuine appreciation for the musical experience, highlighting the power of music to transcend cultural boundaries and create connections. Their attempts at capturing the song’s essence, from the pronunciation to the rhythm, offered a charming display of cross-cultural exchange, further enhancing the episode’s appeal.
The challenge concluded with Yeji and Lia emerging as joint victors, their impressive performances earning them the first pick of the Indonesian dishes. Their choices reflected the diverse culinary landscape of Indonesia: Yeji opted for the savory mee goreng, a stir-fried noodle dish, while Lia selected the crispy and flavorful ayam grepek, a type of fried chicken. Meanwhile, Yuna, having come in last, was left with gado-gado, a refreshing salad with peanut sauce dressing. Each dish represented a distinct facet of Indonesian cuisine, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of flavors and culinary traditions that characterize the country’s gastronomic heritage. Although a playful penalty for the challenge, the selection process ultimately showcased a variety of iconic Indonesian dishes to the audience.
Ryujin’s culinary adventure took a more daring turn. Instead of opting for a conventional Indonesian dish, she boldly chose durian, the notorious “king of fruits,” renowned for its pungent aroma and unique flavor profile. Her description of the durian as having “the sweetness of onions” sparked amusement and intrigue among viewers, further emphasizing the durian’s polarizing nature. This unexpected choice not only highlighted Ryujin’s adventurous palate but also introduced the audience to a quintessential Southeast Asian fruit, further broadening the episode’s cultural scope. It served as a humorous reminder of the subjective nature of taste and the potential for cross-cultural culinary surprises.
The episode’s impact extended beyond the screen, generating a buzz of online activity among netizens who praised Itzy’s spirited attempt at singing dangdut. Comments flooded social media platforms, with many applauding Yeji and Lia’s accurate pronunciation and expressing surprise at witnessing the K-pop group embrace this traditionally Indonesian genre. The unexpected nature of the performance was encapsulated by one comment: “Itzy singing dangdut was not on my 2024 bingo card.” This sentiment reflected the widespread positive reception of the episode, demonstrating Itzy’s ability to connect with audiences through their willingness to engage with diverse cultural experiences.
Ultimately, the episode of “World-Class K-Dol” featuring Itzy’s Indonesian adventure resonated with viewers due to its blend of cultural immersion, lighthearted competition, and genuine appreciation for Indonesian traditions. The group’s enthusiastic engagement with the language, music, and cuisine offered a refreshing and engaging portrayal of cross-cultural exchange, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for Indonesia among their international fanbase. The episode’s success lay in its ability to entertain while simultaneously educating, showcasing the power of pop culture to bridge cultural divides and create meaningful connections. The playful challenge, combined with the members’ genuine reactions and the online buzz it generated, solidified the episode’s impact as a memorable cultural experience for both Itzy and their audience.
