They could have generated something convincing with AI in a few minutes. Instead, Yeongju's officials suited up in matching wildfire emergency uniforms and fell into formation. The timing slips a little, the backs ache a little, but the sincerity on screen is something AI simply cannot fake. The 'STORM' choreography originally went viral through AI remakes. This time, it is the human version that draws attention.
The expressions and movements of the officials in the video are not perfect. Yet that imperfection creates authenticity. A smooth AI-generated video is forgotten in seconds, but footage of real people moving stays in memory. Yeongju used this video to promote its ginseng festival while simultaneously demonstrating the value of the real. The message is clear: even when it is hard, you just do it.
Shortly after the original choreography regained attention at the 2026 MTV VMAs, a regional Korean city reinterpreted it with a civil servant cast. It is a case of absorbing a trend quickly and digesting it in one's own way. The sight of 60 Yeongju officials dancing in wildfire emergency uniforms suggests new possibilities for promotional content. Sincerity, it turns out, is stronger than technology, and they proved it with their bodies.
Curious about this energy this weekend? Head to Yeongju. Which moves you more: a perfect video made by AI, or an imperfect one danced by real people?
FAQ
What is the 'STORM' choreography video by Yeongju City officials?
It's a promotional video for the ginseng festival featuring over 60 Yeongju City Hall executives of grade 5 and above recreating the choreography from GENER8ION and Yung Lean's 'STORM' music video. Deputy Mayor Eom Tae-hyun plays Yung Lean's role, biting into Punggi ginseng, and they danced themselves in wildfire emergency uniforms instead of using AI.
Why did 'STORM' choreography gain renewed attention recently?
The original choreography was performed live at the 2026 MTV VMAs, sparking renewed interest. While the dance had previously gone viral through AI remake videos, Yeongju City created buzz right after the MTV stage by reinterpreting it with real people dancing.
Why did Yeongju City choose to dance themselves instead of using AI?
Though AI could have generated the video in minutes, Yeongju City executives wore matching wildfire emergency uniforms and performed themselves. Despite off-beat moments and aching backs, they wanted to show that the sincerity on screen is something AI simply cannot replicate.
