Interviewer: Deena Jasmine (Chikkmagaluru, Karnataka, India)

Editor: Pooja Vishwanathan (Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, India)

From wordplay to stage sway, Mushvenom is turning rap into his signature form of expression.

Mushvenom a.k.a Lee Tae-min is one of the most exciting voices in Korean hip-hop scene. With clever wordplay, playful humor, and his signature Chungcheong dialect, he turns every track into a story you can’t forget. 

From Why Are You So Noisy? to VVS with Mirani, Munchman, Khundi Panda, and Justhis, he has shown that rap can be bold, witty, and full of personality. He’s also been recognized at the Korean Hip Hop Awards and finished as runner-up on Show Me the Money 9. 

With his newly released album, Earl, Mushvenom blends traditional Korean vibes with modern beats to create music that’s fresh and rooted. In this interview, let’s explore his creative process, inspirations, and the stories behind the songs making waves in hip-hop today. 

What first drew you to rap, and which moments or people had the biggest influence on your journey as a rapper?

I was always interested in music from a young age, and I was especially drawn to rap because it allows me to tell my own story through lyrics. Hip-hop values honesty and individuality, which resonated with me. Along the way, the people around me and many artists inspired me, helping me discover my own voice. 

Your stage name, ‘Mushvenom,’ is really unique. How did you come up with it, and what does it represent for you as a rapper? 

In Korean, there’s a phrase I like to use: “meot-i bae-eotda, meot-i baennom,” which roughly means “a person full of style and charisma.” I wanted to turn that phrase into a unique English name, so I came up with “Mushvenom.” It carries the playful sound of the original words while also expressing my identity as an artist. 

You’ve mentioned that your family is a significant influence on your artistry. How has their support impacted your music and career? 

My family has been my biggest source of strength throughout this journey. Even in difficult times, they supported me and encouraged me to express my stories as they are. I believe I am where I am today because of their support. 

Your music blends traditional and modern sounds. How do you decide which elements of Korean culture to include in your tracks?

I want to use Korean elements not just as decoration, but as part of the identity of my music. I try to balance traditional sounds or sentiments with modern beats in a way that feels natural and authentic. 

Your debut single, Why Are You So Noisy?, showcased a unique mix of humor and rhythm. What inspired that track, and can you walk us through your creative process for it?

The song Why Are You So Noisy? reflects my personality and sense of humor. I drew inspiration from everyday situations and playful ideas, weaving them into rhythm and wordplay that felt natural to me. 

In VVS, you collaborated with Mirani, Munchman, Khundi Panda, and Justhis. How did the synergy among the artists influence the final sound of the song?

Each artist brought a distinct style to VVS, and the combination created a special energy. The mix of our individuality and tension made the track richer and more dynamic. 

Your use of the Chungcheong dialect in your raps adds a personal touch. What inspired you to incorporate this regional accent into your music?

It felt natural to bring the language and sentiment of the place I grew up into my music. The dialect allows me to express my own identity while also giving listeners something unique and familiar at the same time. 

From Show Me the Money 8 to Season 9, where you finished as runner-up, which moments stand out the most in your memory from those two journeys?

Every time I stepped on stage during Show Me the Money, I felt both nervousness and excitement. Especially in Season 9, receiving so much love and reaching the finals was a turning point for me and gave me the courage to move forward. 

Your stage presence is so dynamic. How do you engage with the audience when performing live? 

For me, a performance is not just about music but also about sharing energy and atmosphere. I try to connect naturally with the audience, responding to their reactions and breathing with them throughout the show.

How do you approach writing your lyrics, and where do you draw inspiration from?

I find inspiration everywhere—in conversations, books, movies, and even small everyday moments. I try to be honest with my experiences and thoughts, and through that, new expressions are born. 

Why Are You So Noisy? earned Hip-Hop Track of the Year at the Korean Hip Hop Awards. What did receiving this award mean to you, and how did it shape your path as a rapper?

Winning Hip-Hop Track of the Year at the Korean Hip Hop Awards with Why Are You So Noisy? was a huge encouragement and gave me confidence. It confirmed that my music can resonate with people and bring them joy, while also reminding me of the responsibility to keep moving forward. 

What has been the toughest challenge you’ve faced in your career so far, and how did you overcome it?

The biggest challenge was the pressure of creating and the lack of self-assurance. But my love for music and the support from those around me helped me rise again. That experience made my music stronger and more grounded. 

With your newly released album, Earl, you’ve blended Korean tradition with modern hip-hop. What message did you aim to convey through this project, and if someone is listening for the first time, which track would you recommend they start with? 

My album Earl is rooted in Korean tradition while embracing contemporary sensibilities. I wanted to show my identity through the coexistence of tradition and modernity. For first-time listeners, I would recommend starting with the title track. 

Looking back at your journey so far, what moment are you most proud of in your career? 

There have been many memorable moments, but I’m most proud when my music brings laughter and comfort to people. Those are the moments that stay with me. 

Could you tell us about your upcoming projects? Are there any themes, collaborations, or new sounds that fans should be excited about? 

I’m working on expanding my sound while staying true to my essence. New collaborations and fresh musical experiments are on the way, and I’m excited to share them soon. 

Do you have a message for fans around the world, including those in India?

I’m truly grateful for your love and support from afar. I will continue to create music that can give back to you. I hope that one day we can meet on stage and share the energy together.

Once again, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for your precious time and for sharing insights about your journey. Thank you so much. On behalf of the entire team at  Hallyuism, we wish you all the best for your future and lots of love from India! 

We hope you all loved reading this interview as much as we loved conducting it. Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!