EPIK HIGH

Epik High is a South Korean hip-hop trio formed in 2002, built around Tablo, Mithra Jin, and DJ Tukutz. Based in Seoul, the group signed with Woollim Entertainment and released High Society and Map of the Human Soul before breaking through with Swan Songs (2005), Remapping the Human Soul (2007), and Pieces, Part One (2008). Much of that early run was censored by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism for language and themes tied to crime, war, religion, and education, yet the trio developed a cult following and critical acclaim. Hit singles such as “Fly” and “Love Love Love” helped define their place in Korean hip-hop.

Following Mithra Jin and DJ Tukutz’s mandatory military service, Epik High moved from Woollim to YG Entertainment in 2012. Their work there — 99, Shoebox, and later We’ve Done Something Wonderful — turned toward heartbreak, personal struggles, and self-help, and they became the first South Korean act to play at Coachella. In 2018, they left YG, established their own label Ours Co., and signed with William Morris Endeavor. Later releases, including the EP Strawberry and the 2024 mixtape Pump, show a group continuing to evolve outside the major-label system.

Discography

• High Society (2004)
• Map of the Human Soul (2004)
• Swan Songs (2005)
• Black Swan Songs (2006)
• Remapping the Human Soul (2007)
• LOVESCREAM (2008)
• Pieces, Part One (2008)
• Epilogue (2010)