Rottnest, Choi Youngyoon Selected for KT&G 청춘비상 2026

Seoul's KT&G 상상마당 홍대, a multi-use cultural space in Hongdae, has announced the winners of its 2026 music support program 청춘비상. Band Rottnest (로트네스트) and solo independent artist Choi Youngyoon (최윤영) were selected, according to an announcement on the venue's official Instagram account, @ssmadang_live.
Who was selected
- Rottnest (로트네스트, IG @sisodan_) — band
- Choi Youngyoon (최윤영, IG @choiyoungyoon_) — solo independent artist
What the program involves
청춘비상 is a music support initiative run by KT&G 상상마당 홍대, which selects acts through an open call and provides them with follow-up resources. For the 2026 cycle, only two acts were chosen — one band and one solo artist.
What we don't know yet
The organizer has not yet detailed what the collaboration will actually entail — whether that means recording support, performance opportunities, mentorship, or something else. No dates, venues, or public-facing events tied to the program have been announced at this time.
Why it matters for readers abroad
KT&G 상상마당 홍대 is a long-running venue and creative space in Seoul's Hongdae district, known for live performances, recording facilities, and exhibition space, and is considered one of the notable stops on Korea's independent music circuit. Official details on what the collaboration with Rottnest and Choi Youngyoon will involve are expected to be announced separately.