Return of LP Records

[Anchor Lead]

For the most part, digital music has replaced CDs, cassette tapes and LP records. But a growing number of music lovers are seeking out vinyl records and turntables to enjoy their favorite tunes the old-fashioned way.

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Tens of thousands of LP records fill one side of this store. There is even a DJ who selects songs for patrons. The ambience resembles the 70s and 80s when music cafes thrived. Let's listen to some of the music played here. But this music cafe is special for another reason. Outwardly it looked like a music cafe for middle-aged and older patrons, but it is actually packed with young customers. To the digital generation LP records have become a special cultural trend.

[Soundbite] Gyeong Yeong-su(Customer) : "I came to this store because of the retro fad. I liked it so much that I've been coming here ever since."

[Soundbite] Lee Ji-su(Customer) : "I patronize this place because music from LP records seems to make me more emotional."

The rising popularity of old vinyl records has prompted today's young Korean singers to release limited edition LP records. LP records have become more than just a notalgic memory for the older generation, but a new trend appreciated by younger people as well. Although LP record factories have vanished in Korea, there still remains a place where turntables are made. This is Ryu Jin-gon who has been making turntables for the past 25 years. He goes through various processes to make dozens of components, which are then assembled to complete a turntable. In order to make a perfect turntable, he checks the parts to make them level and adjusts the rpm or revolutions per minute. He puts the turntable through rigorous testing to produce great sound.

[Soundbite] Ryu Jin-gon(Turntable Maker) : "I make each and every part and assemble them to make sound. I'm really happy when I hear the sound I want."

The completed turntable proves its worth when music is played on it. What motivated him to make turntables for so long?

[Soundbite] Ryu Jin-gon(Turntable Maker) : "I've been doing this work for 25 years. I'm proud to carry on the vanishing tradition. I firmly believe that the age of LP records will return some day."

LP records have become more than just a symbol of old times, but a hip cultural trend that appeals to the young generation.