Cosmic disco first appeared at the Cosmic Club in the North of Italy and was hugely successful in the 70s and 80s. More synthetic and hypnotic, this sound is like a fusion of the energy of disco with the melancholy of new wave. The Italians and the legend Daniele Baldelli played a key role in the spread of the genre. Since then, a new generation of artists have taken over. Hailing from South Korea, Shubostar at the head of uju Records, is one of the ambassadors who lights up dance-floors. Signed to notable labels such as Internasjonal, Live At Robert Johnson, Fabric Records, she spreads  her cosmic music across the globe. Shubostar speaks about her references notably the figures  who shaped the landscape of “Norwegian space disco” sound, she shares with us the philosophy behind her own imprint, her way of producing and effects she’s looking for, her vision of the East Asia scene and how she perceives the Djing in the next few years.

Interview from the special disco edition – star wax #74

Where do you come from?

I grew up in Korea with my mom's vinyl collection, loved climbing trees, and had very free-spirited parents. I’ve never learned much from school. I quit piano lessons to play at home, learned guitar from my mom, and taught myself Cakewalk 3.0 in high school.

Who are your main influences?

My mom.

How did you link up with the German-Norwegian label Internasjonal? 

I’m a big fan of Prins Thomas, so reaching out to him came out naturally (Prins Thomas runs the label with Hans-Peter Lindstrøm, Editor's Notes).  

Why and when did you pick up being actively interested in producing music?

I noticed I always return to music, and it was slowly growing bigger in my life. That’s when I realized it’s my destiny.

You have launched your own label in 2018, what is the philosophy behind uju Records?

The art director and painter Darying Kim and I wanted to create the feeling of being alone in the universe but knowing that we are all connected.

Your definition of the cosmic disco?

The bass line is like Italo disco, but the other elements, like the pad or arp, could be darker.

If I tell you Daniele Baldelli, what first comes to your mind?

The club cosmic and his cosmic disco compilations are known as the "Cosmic Disco" series.

Regarding your anime and manga references, did soundtracks inspire you for producing your own sound?

I’m inspired more by the anime itself than by its soundtracks, which you can see in many of my track names (laughs). But I still love listening to them. One track that stands out is “Bôa - “Duvet” from the anime Lain. (Bôa are a British alt-rock band known for their breakthrough single “Duvet,” which became the soundtrack to the cult Japanese anime Serial Experiments Lain, Editor’s note)

How did you get from rock to cosmic disco?

It was just a life journey. When I was young, I listened to rock more, but then I discovered disco, and eventually, all the different flavors I enjoyed blended together to create my cosmic disco sound.

Is there any Disco/Nu-disco/Dark-disco scene in South Korea/East Asia?

Yes, it feels a bit distant, and the disco scene in East/Southeast Asia isn't widely known. But when you go there and get closer, you'll see that they have a strong disco, nu disco, and dark disco scene. Places like Seoul's Nyapi, Jakarta's Zodiak, and Japan's Rainbow Disco Club festival are examples of this thriving culture, often featuring impressive international line-ups.

Could you develop please?

Absolutely! In South Korea, Seoul is a cultural hub with venues like Nyapi and Modeci hosting local and international talent. Nyapi has featured artists like Ivan Smagghe, Prins Thomas, Manfredas, and Skatebård, while Modeci recently invited Gerd Janson. In Southeast Asia, Jakarta’s Zodiak is a hotspot for nu-disco and dark-disco, inviting some of the best Djs from this scene. Local talents like Jonathan Kusuma, Saturn, and CYDA also play a big role in shaping the city's vibrant culture. Singapore’s Turf Club consistently delivers strong lineups, including our favorite Djs. This January, they invited Jennifer Cardini. Japan’s Rainbow Disco Club festival stands out too, showcasing world-class acts alongside local artists in beautiful outdoor settings.

Could you listen to this Thai disco-pop track from the 70's originally produced by the Bangkok group The Impossibles. What does it make you think about? 

It sounds like a mix of disco-pop sounds with Thai psychedelic vocals. It really reminds me of one of my favorite places, Studio Lam in Bangkok.

Speaking of which, are voices important for your production ?

My mini hits are always vocal tracks. "Brave the World" with Terr (recently signed to DGTL Records, Editor’s note) and "Spiegel" with Justine Forever (video below. Track signed on Internasjonal, Editor’s note) are great examples. Humans really connect with vocals!

I read somewhere about your synthesizers collection…

I just bought my first synthesizer a few months ago, the SH-101, and I'm always a big fan of u-he Diva.

What kind of effects are you looking for on the listener?

It’s the same philosophy with my label, uju Records: feeling alone, floating in the universe, but knowing that we are all connected.

You live between Mexico and Berlin, for you what are the main bridges between these towns? 

I lived in Mexico City for 4-5 years and I love that city so much. I moved to Berlin 3 years ago, and it's a great city too! That’s why I love the combination: summer in Berlin and winter in Mexico. It matches perfectly with the high seasons for both cities.

Your top 5 tracks from Mexico? 

-Pachanga Boys "Time"

-Luis Miguel "La incondicional"

-Bufi & La Royale "Jaylo"

-Fausto "Nativo"

-Supercontinent "El Rancho"

You've already worked with many huge producers. What did you like most about these collaborations and what did you learn the most?

I visited DJ Boring’s studio in London and worked with him for a few days. I learned a lot of new perspectives on producing from him. He’s a genius!

Which artists and labels would you like to collaborate with?

Lindstrøm. He is the reason I called my style cosmic disco. Röyksopp. Their melancholic, unique feeling has inspired me a lot

How do you see the scene in the next few years? 

Dj gigs are no longer just about listening to music and dancing; they’re becoming full experiences. That’s why I think live sets are becoming a bigger part of the scene—shows with interactive elements and virtual reality will create a more immersive and engaging atmosphere for the audience.

Your top 5 video game soundtracks?

Princess Maker2, Mabinogi, Uncharted Waters, Ecco the dolphin, Final Fantasy 8.

If Dark Disco was a character…

If Dark Disco was a character, it would be like Kenny from South Park: shy, rebellious, with strong opinions, a bit naughty, and carefree, not worried about what’s happening outside.

If you could teleport yourself…

When Jesus Christ performed miracles, I wonder if they were real and how they happened. It’s fascinating to think about the stories and what they might have meant to people at that time.

Your projects for 2025?

Building my studio!

The current Shubostar in 3 words? 

Workout, Meditation, Work.

Interviewed by Sabrina Bouzidi / Photo by Zohar Shitrit