German emo punk outfit Shoreline have released a delicate acoustic rendition of their powerful single "Seoul", taken from their 2023 album To Figure Out released via Pure Noise Records. This reimagined track, available now on all streaming platforms, brings a softer, more introspective feel to one of the band’s most emotionally charged songs.
"Seoul" originally resonated deeply with fans for its exploration of identity struggles, a topic lead vocalist Hansol Seung confronts with raw honesty. Reflecting on the song’s impact during live performances, Seung shared:
“It was amazing to see how many kids sang back every word. It connected with so many people, especially those struggling with self-confidence and identity—something I thought only applied to my experience growing up as Asian-German.”
The stripped-back version of "Seoul" doesn’t lose any of its emotional weight. If anything, the acoustic arrangement amplifies the vulnerability at its core, allowing Seung’s poignant lyrics to shine through in a new light. Accompanying the release is a serene music video, which adds a visual layer of intimacy to the reworked track.
To Figure Out, released via Pure Noise Records, has garnered praise for its blend of personal reflection and political commentary. The album features a mix of themes, from the climate crisis to difficult friendships, all delivered with Shoreline’s signature blend of punk energy and emotional depth. Produced by Chris Teti (known for his work with Anxious, Fiddlehead, and The World Is a Beautiful Place & I Am No Longer Afraid to Die), the record also includes a guest appearance from Chris Cresswell of The Flatliners on the song “Workaround”.
Shoreline’s latest effort continues their tradition of heartfelt storytelling, but the acoustic version of "Seoul" offers a refreshing contrast to the heavier elements of the album. Fans of the original track will appreciate the new take, while those unfamiliar with the band’s work might find this an accessible entry point into their discography.
Looking ahead, Shoreline are set to return to the UK in early 2025, where they’ll be supporting pop-punk veterans Four Year Strong on a string of dates. Sharing the bill with Koyo, Shoreline’s live energy promises to be a standout, especially for those who’ve connected with their latest record.
With their growing international fanbase and a knack for creating emotionally charged music, Shoreline continue to solidify their place in the punk scene. The acoustic version of "Seoul" is yet another testament to their ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.
Watch the video for the acoustic version of “Seoul”:
Upcoming live dates
