South Korean singer and producer Gaho has arrived in Brazil for his first concert series in the country, launching his To Mars Tour in Sao Paulo as Korean pop culture continues its rapid expansion across South America. The 28-year-old musician opened the tour on August 22 and will perform across six additional Brazilian cities through September 5.
In an interview with CNN Brasil reporter Mirian Sampaio, the performer expressed gratitude for his South American fanbase and reflected on the global popularity of Korean television soundtracks. He noted that music fans and industry colleagues in South Korea are well aware of the strong affection Brazilian audiences hold for Korean artists.
Gaho said Brazilian supporters regularly participate in his online live broadcasts, leave comments on social media posts, and tune into his live radio appearances in South Korea. He explained that real-time comments from overseas listeners often surprise host stations in Seoul, making him eager to perform in person to return their support.
Rise to Prominence in Television Soundtracks
The artist launched his professional career under Planetarium Records in May 2018 with the release of his debut single Stay Here. Over the following years, he built a global reputation as a composer, vocalist, and record producer within the Korean television industry. Korean television dramas, known as K-dramas, have become a major international phenomenon, drawing millions of global viewers through digital streaming platforms.
His major soundtrack contributions include Start Over for the 2020 drama Itaewon Class and Yellow Light for the 2023 series King the Land. Describing the creation of Start Over, Gaho attributed the track's success to the compelling drama storyline, strong performances by the cast, and an uplifting message that resonated with audiences during the global COVID-19 pandemic.
He explained that he recorded the vocal tracks while watching edited scenes from the series. The experience made him feel as though he were acting alongside the cast, allowing him to capture the emotional depth required for the show.
Expectations and Reality on the Brazilian Stage
Prior to departing South Korea, Gaho and his management team associated Brazil with high energy, dancing, and festive celebration. He anticipated concerts where fans would dance continuously like a massive party, but discovered instead that audiences listened with intense quiet focus.
The singer noted his surprise at seeing audience members moved to tears while he performed Stay Here. He said the deep respect, focused attention, and warm gestures from the São Paulo crowd made him feel as if he were performing in front of long-lost family members.
Reflecting on career difficulties, Gaho observed that maintaining creative energy poses a greater challenge than overcoming temporary setbacks. He acknowledged that home composition does not always yield expected results and that physical fatigue or vocal strain can affect live performances. To sustain his career, he adopted a habit of staying positive and pushing forward without dwelling on disappointment.
Balancing Solo Performances and Band Projects
Comparing his solo music with his work as frontman for the band Kave, Gaho described his solo repertoire as more complex and physically demanding. Performing solo requires him to manage stage presence alone while relying on instrumental backing tracks, which consumes significant energy.
In contrast, Kave consists of his close friends from high school and university, allowing him to present a more relaxed and natural side of his personality. He expressed a strong desire to bring Kave to Brazil on a future tour, noting that the country possesses a vibrant live band culture that would appreciate their live sound.
Special Repertoire for Local Audiences
For his current Brazilian tour setlist, Gaho combined his hit solo compositions, upbeat closing numbers, and a preview of Kave material. He also spent a month preparing a Portuguese cover of Meu Abrigo, a popular song by the Brazilian acoustic pop trio Melim. Melim is widely recognized in Brazil for their blend of reggae, pop, and acoustic music.
Gaho had previously performed the cover twice at festival appearances, causing videos of the performance to circulate widely online before the tour began. Consequently, concertgoers recognized the song immediately when he announced a special preparation. After members of Melim left supportive comments on the viral clips, Gaho shared his hope of eventually performing the track live alongside the Brazilian group.
Encouragement for Emerging Artists
Addressing young fans and aspiring musicians, Gaho advised against waiting until one feels entirely ready before sharing creative work. He noted that many talented individuals hesitate due to perceived personal limitations.
He emphasized that artists build skill through direct experience on stage and that audiences are generous in supporting creative growth. Recalling early performances that contained flaws, he credited bold decision-making for his artistic development and encouraged others to move forward without fear of public judgment.
Future Projects and Nationwide Tour Schedule
Looking ahead, Gaho stated that he plans to return to South Korea with inspiration drawn from his Brazilian audience. He intends to write new solo compositions, produce fresh tracks with Kave, and prepare for larger future shows in enhanced venue environments.
Following his opening performance in São Paulo, the To Mars Tour continues across six regional capitals:
- August 28: Belém at Teatro It Center
- August 30: Fortaleza at Teatro Brasil Tropical
- September 1: Salvador at Teatro da Cidade
- September 3: Florianópolis at John Bull
- September 4: Porto Alegre at Centro de Eventos CIEE
- September 5: Curitiba at Igloo Super Hall
Concert tickets are available exclusively through the Meaple ticketing platform, offering various package tiers based on seating sections and promotional activities. The Brazilian tour is produced by K-Beat Entertainment.
