On 'Radio Star,' singer Kangnam announced exciting news about his naturalization, along with further good news: he received a love call from one of Japan's three major talent agencies.
On the 23rd broadcast of MBC's variety show 'Radio Star,' singer Kangnam shared joyful news.
Singer Kangnam officially acquired Korean nationality after passing the South Korea naturalization test in 2022. Since dual nationality is not allowed between Korea and Japan, Kangnam is now a complete 'Korean.' However, he has decided to keep his Japanese name 'Namekawa Yasuo' for now. Currently, he is registered under the surname 'Na' as 'Yongsan Na.'
In response, everyone noted, "But what about your name...?" Kangnam mentioned he is considering a name change in the future. He explained, "Yasuo means 'a strong man,' which inspired the stage name 'Kangnam.'"
Furthermore, singer Kangnam is once again gaining attention in his main profession as a 'singer.' Recently, with YouTube gaining significant popularity, his cover video surpassed 11 million views, creating a buzz. In the video, he impeccably performed the cover song with a Japanese native accent.
Following this video, Kangnam mentioned that he received a love call from a large Japanese entertainment agency, stating, "I was contacted directly by one of Japan's three major talent agencies," and everyone remarked, "It's a blessing right after changing nationality to become a Korean singer."
Particularly, this contract occurred after Kangnam acquired Korean nationality, which was surprising. Kangnam also said, "I wasn't contacted when I had Japanese nationality," and even added, "(Now) I have to go to Japan on a visa as a K-pop artist." Everyone cheered, saying, "Since you changed your nationality, may many good things happen; Yasuo, work hard!"
Meanwhile, Kangnam married Lee Sang-hwa, a former national speed skating representative, in 2019.
[OSEN]