Hailing from Seoul, South Korea, DJ SODA, born Hwang So-hee, has become a global sensation in the electronic dance music scene. Before dominating the decks, she pursued an acting career but soon found herself drawn to the electrifying world of DJing. In 2013, she made the bold leap to fully commit to music, quickly gaining recognition for her high-energy sets, signature remixes, and undeniable stage presence. Today, she stands as one of Asia’s most influential DJs, breaking barriers and redefining the industry.
In a celebration of empowerment and music, DJ SODA is set to headline at MARQUEE Singapore on 8 March (purchase tickets here) in honour of International Women's Day. This event promises an unforgettable night, blending high-energy beats with a message of inspiration and strength. We caught up with the phenomenal DJ to hear her thoughts on performing on this special day dedicated to celebrating women.
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Hey DJ SODA! Your journey from acting to DJing is inspiring. What was the defining moment that made you fully commit to music?
There wasn’t just one moment, but rather a series of experiences that made me realize music was where I truly belonged. Performing on stage, seeing people connect with my music, and feeling the energy of the crowd—those moments made me commit fully. Music allows me to express myself in ways that acting didn’t, and that’s what keeps me going.
The electronic dance scene is constantly evolving. How do you stay ahead of trends and keep your sound fresh?
I stay curious and open-minded. I listen to a wide range of genres, not just electronic music, and draw inspiration from different cultures, sounds, and even fashion. I also enjoy experimenting with new production techniques and collaborating with other artists to keep my sound evolving.
Your fashion sense is as iconic as your DJing. How would you describe your style, and does it influence your music choices?
Thank you! I’d say my style is bold, edgy, and sometimes a little unpredictable—just like my music. Fashion and music are both forms of self-expression, so I think they naturally influence each other. When I feel confident in what I wear, it reflects in my energy on stage.
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You’ve played in clubs and festivals alike—do you have a preference? How does your approach change between the two?
Both have their own magic. Clubs are more intimate, so you can really connect with the crowd and experiment. Festivals, on the other hand, are all about high energy and massive scale. My approach changes based on the setting—clubs allow for deeper, more experimental sets, while festivals are all about big, impactful moments.
EDM is often seen as a male-dominated industry. What challenges have you faced as a female DJ, and how have you overcome them?
There have definitely been moments where I felt I had to prove myself more than my male counterparts. But instead of focusing on that, I let my work speak for itself. Talent, dedication, and passion will always shine through, regardless of gender.
With International Women’s Day around the corner, what message do you have for aspiring female DJs and artists?
Don’t let stereotypes define you. Stay confident, work hard, and believe in your vision. The industry is changing, and there’s so much space for talented women to shine. Keep pushing boundaries and supporting each other!
Your upcoming show in Singapore coincides with International Women’s Day. What does this day mean to you personally and as an artist?
It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come and how much more we can achieve. As an artist, I see it as a celebration of creativity, strength, and breaking boundaries. I hope my journey can inspire other women to follow their passion, no matter the industry.
Purchase tickets here for DJ SODA at MARQUEE Singapore on Saturday, 8 March.
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