Holland gay
Meet Holland, the first openly gay K-pop Idol
For numerous years, K-pop has been a significant force in shaping Korean culture. Artists and prominent figures consistently grace television screens, with A-list celebrities frequently appearing on reality shows and game programs; furthermore, shop fronts are adorned with celebrities endorsing even the most ordinary of goods.
Go Tae-Seob, widely recognized by his professional moniker, Holland, is a vocalist hailing from South Korea. His inaugural appearance occurred in January of 2018, marked by the unveiling of his single, ‘Neverland'. Go selected the stage name Holland as a gesture of homage to the inaugural nation that legalized same-sex matrimony, the Netherlands.
When he initially resolved to pursue a career in music, he endeavored to audition for various entertainment corporations.
Nevertheless, no entity demonstrated a willingness to collaborate with an artist who was openly homosexual.
'It presented considerable difficulty for me to disseminate my identity and musical creations to the public domain. There is an absence of narrative, relatable representation, or structured programs offering support to the LGBTQ+ community within South Korea,' he communicated to Vogue. 'My assessment is that because this nation underwent rapid development, despite its economic and financial advancement, it did not progress at the same rate culturally and socially. While the entertainment sector exhibits greater openness compared to other spheres, LGBTQ+ matters remain exceedingly discreet and conventional in other domains. It is an issue necessitating recognition and public discourse, yet individuals exhibit reluctance.'
The 24-year-old performer has cultivated a substantial and continually expanding following.
Up to this point, an impressive 14 million individuals have viewed ‘Neverland', and 5 million have watched the self-assured rendition titled ‘I'm Not Afraid'. Holland commands a following of nearly one million individuals on Instagram, and when he opted for crowdfunding to amass resources for his self-titled debut release, he surpassed his fundraising objective of $50,000 within a mere 48 hours.
In addition to being a courageous pioneer and an ardent proponent of LGBTQ+ rights, Holland has been able to depend on his close-knit and exceptionally devoted fanbase for the endorsement of his artistic endeavors. CTZAR engaged in a conversation with the singer regarding the dynamic relationship he maintains with his audience across social media platforms.
How would you characterize your followers?
What fundamental message are you striving to impart to them?
Holland:My aspiration is to articulate my defiance against despair, fostering bravery, optimism, and the dismantling of prejudice, promoting advancement, and combating discrimination. I aim to serve as an exemplar and an individual capable of bestowing solace and affection upon my admirers.
In what ways do you engage with your devoted followers?
Having formed successful collaborations with Louboutin on multiple occasions, could you elaborate on how the brand influences your creative process and the rationale behind your participation in these campaigns?
Holland: Are you jesting? It is highly improbable that anyone would express disinterest in partnering with Louboutin. I find their iconic and timeless footwear to be absolutely magnificent.
The classic designs from Louboutin are arguably the most aesthetically pleasing ever created. My admiration for this brand is profound, and I hold you in high esteem for your consistent pursuit of innovation.
Your dedication to advocating for the LGBTQ+ community is a standout element of your narrative. Do you believe that brands have a responsibility in influencing societal perspectives, particularly concerning contemporary notions of gender and inclusivity?
Who are the individuals currently inspiring you?
Holland: I hold in high regard anyone who leaves their distinctive mark commendably. Irrespective of the nature of their achievements, I find individuals who produce work that authentically reflects their inner thoughts and core values, irrespective of their professional field, to be profoundly inspiring.
Does the current landscape of social media provide you with enhanced opportunities to further your support and involvement in various causes?
Holland: Akin to the collaboration between Louboutin and Geppetto, the digital age is progressively advancing, and through social media, fans draw inspiration from my journey. This phenomenon is truly remarkable! It is an extraordinary privilege to amplify my voice globally from South Korea. My gratitude extends to this era.
What upcoming projects or developments should we anticipate from you in the near future?
Holland: I shall endeavor to establish myself as an indispensable entertainer across a spectrum of genres. Recently, I embarked on a new career path as an actor, with a release scheduled for the forthcoming year. Furthermore, my focus will remain on music creation, and I harbor hopes of resuming collaborations with Louboutin next year. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to have been featured, fulfilling my aspirations.