paraziii

Paraziii (stylised as PARAZIII) is a South Korean indie rock trio that originated in Seoul in 2015. The group consists of vocalist and guitarist Min‑Joon Kim, bassist Seung‑ho Park, and drummer Ji‑hae Lee, who met while studying at Hongik University’s School of Arts. Their first public performance took place at the Hongdae Open Air Festival, where they attracted attention for their energetic blend of jangly pop melodies and atmospheric rock instrumentation.

The band's early years were marked by a DIY approach to songwriting and touring. They recorded a self‑released EP in 2016 that circulated through local indie record stores and online platforms such as Bandcamp and SoundCloud. Their DIY ethos was echoed in the raw production values of the EP, which featured looping guitars, synthesizer textures, and introspective lyrics written in both Korean and English. The success of the EP allowed them to secure a small contract with indie label Seoul Roots Records, which released their debut studio album in 2018.

Paraziii’s musical style draws heavily from Western indie rock acts such as Modest Mouse and The National, while integrating traditional Korean musical elements like pentatonic scales and vocal harmonies. The band’s lyrical themes frequently explore urban alienation, identity, and personal growth. Their second album, released in 2020, demonstrated a more polished production, incorporating string arrangements and experimental electronic effects.

Critical response to Paraziii has been positive within indie music circles. Reviewers have praised the trio’s ability to blend emotional depth with accessible pop hooks, noting that their live performances exhibit a dynamic intensity that captivates audiences. Despite limited international exposure, the group has built a dedicated following in South Korea, and they continue to tour domestically while preparing new material for a 2024 release. Their future projects aim to expand their sonic palette and explore collaborations with artists from other genres.