Beyond “Gangnam Style”: What is PSY Up To Today?

Back in 2012, it was impossible to escape the galloping, lasso-swinging phenomenon that was “Gangnam Style.” Park Jae-sang, globally known as PSY, shattered the internet, becoming the first-ever YouTube video to hit one billion views and sparking a global K-pop craze long before BTS or BLACKPINK filled stadiums worldwide.

More than a decade later, the natural question for many music fans is: Does PSY still make music?

The short answer is a resounding yes. While he may no longer dominate Western pop charts on a daily basis, PSY has far from hung up his signature suit jacket. Instead, he has evolved into a powerhouse music executive, a record-label mogul, and a legendary live performer who continues to drop new music and pack stadiums.

1. His Recent Music: The “PSY 9th” Era and Beyond

PSY has never truly stopped recording. Following years of running his own creative course, he released his ninth full-length studio album, aptly titled Psy 9th, in April 2022.

The album proved that his quirky, high-energy musical style hasn’t lost its edge. It featured star-studded collaborations with major contemporary Korean artists:

• “That That” (produced by and featuring Suga of BTS): The lead single was a massive international hit, marrying PSY’s theatrical performance style with Suga’s slick production, reminding the world of PSY’s ability to craft catchy, danceable anthems.
• Other Collaborations: The album also featured tracks with Zico, Crush, Heize, Hwasa, and Tablo, bridging the gap between first-generation K-pop royalty and current industry heavyweights.

Since then, PSY has focused heavily on guiding his company and crafting massive live experiences, while dropping hints and preparing for his next major musical chapters.

2. Life as a Music Mogul: P Nation

In 2019, PSY stepped into a brand-new role by founding P Nation, an entertainment agency and record label. Rather than just making his own music, PSY dedicated himself to scouting, nurturing, and producing talent.

Under his leadership, P Nation has become home to some of South Korea’s most dynamic soloists and idol groups, including Crush, Hwasa, and TNX. PSY takes a very hands-on approach as a mentor and executive producer, helping shape the sound and artistic identities of his label’s roster. Running a major label takes up a massive portion of his time, shifting his output from rapid-fire solo releases to deep industry leadership.

3. The King of Live Concerts: “Summer Swag”

If you want to understand where PSY’s primary creative energy goes today, look no further than the stage. In South Korea, PSY is practically a seasonal institution.