DJ BREAKSON is one of the most electrifying and technically gifted DJs emerging from Korea’s underground scene. Known for his genre-bending transitions, slick routines, and infectious energy, BREAKSON has earned accolades at top-tier battles like 25 DDC, DKBT, and Vava DJ Competition, and recently made waves as a DMC Open Wildcard Finalist. He’s also a member of the Beatsource Official Street Team, where he champions creativity and community for DJs worldwide.
Ahead of his upcoming set at AVENUE Singapore on 16 August, we caught up with the Seoul-based DJ to talk about battling nerves, reading crowds, and why Instagram might be his favourite new classroom.
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You started off as a b-boy with Drifterz Crew before stepping behind the decks. How did breaking influence the way you approach DJing and reading the floor?
Breaking might look flashy, but it really needs a lot of transitions between moves—what we call “flows.” That mindset taught me to always try to “hit different” and stay fresh for others. When I used to battle, I had to watch my opponent's round and the crowd’s reaction, then immediately decide how to respond. It’s very similar to reading the floor as a DJ, right?
Your mixing is world-class. What goes into mastering and evolving your technique behind the decks?
First of all, I listen carefully—whether it’s another DJ’s set, a new track, or music playing in a shop. If I find something interesting like a lyric or a tone, I write it down and try to build a new transition at home. I then shape it into something the crowd can understand—nothing too crazy! Though a bunch of those transitions ended up in the bin. (Laughs)
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What’s one scratch or transition you used to struggle with, but now it’s a core part of your style?
Definitely toneplay. I love finding new toneplay ideas—it’s like discovering hidden gems in music, almost like digging. But it’s still tough! I’m not fully focused on high-level scratching or beat juggling. I’m more about fresh ideas, and blending techniques into transitions. Creating and training are different things, but they always work together. That’s the core of my style.
You’ve been successful in a number of prestigious competitions. How do competition sets differ from your club sets in terms of prep and mindset?
They’re totally different. For competition sets, I plan everything—the techniques, song connections—and it all has to be executed perfectly. But for club sets, I have a loose guideline that can change instantly depending on the venue or crowd. I keep selecting new flows and try to keep the energy alive. I’m always focused on the overall vibe.
Competition-wise, what has been your proudest accolade so far?
Honestly, I’m proud of every competition I’ve been part of. Every DJ comes in super prepared, and sometimes I’m lucky to win. I can’t say any one win is the proudest. And hey—I’ve got the DMC Open Wildcard Finals coming up! No matter what happens, I’ll keep challenging myself.
On the flip side, has there been a moment where a technical fail onstage taught you something lasting about DJing—or about yourself?
Yes—for sure. Once, I challenged myself too much. I had tons of routines ready, but decided to go with something new, difficult, and under-practised, thinking, “I can do it.” Let’s just say… lesson learnt. (Laughs)
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Korea’s turntablism scene doesn’t always get the spotlight. What’s the community like, and how has it shaped you?
True—the scene is small, but full of potential. There aren’t many DJ battles—maybe one a year—and only a few people are really into it. A lot of DJs just look for gigs in clubs or festivals. That’s the same everywhere. But this situation pushed me to focus on “doing my thing, while keeping the vibes.”
Your Instagram posts include behind-the-scenes glimpses of your techniques. What inspired you to share your craft in such an educational and playful way?
I want people to see what DJs actually do—and maybe inspire beginners too. I hope they watch my routines and build their own. That way, the DJ scene can grow and get more colourful!
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Being part of the Beatsource street team puts you in a global spotlight—how has that platform helped expand your reach?
Beatsource has been a great friend. They share curated playlists that are super helpful for DJs. I use those playlists to create routines and videos, and they often share my content too. It’s a powerful boost, and I’m really thankful. It also motivates me to keep going!
We’re excited to hear that you’ll be coming to Singapore soon! What can fans expect from your upcoming set at AVENUE?
I can’t describe the full set in just a few routines—it’s all about energy and connection. I’m going to make it your best night. Let’s share that energy!
Click here for more information about DJ BREAKSON's upcoming set at AVENUE Singapore.
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