“Gangnam Style" Mentions by Top Global Leaders

With over 650 million views, PSY’s “Gangnam Style” is by far the most popular music video this year. With fame and popularity comes influence, and some of the most influential people in the world had a few things to say about this global sensation! Scroll through the list to see how “Gangnam Style” was mentioned by some of the most prominent global leaders. Don’t forget to let us know if we missed anyone!

(Click the arrow at the top of this box to see the full list!)

U.S. President Barack Obama

During a recent radio interview, President Obama was asked if he or Michelle would eventually do a rendition of PSY’s “Gangnam Style.” His response: “I just saw that video for the first time. I think I can do that move. But I’m not sure that the inauguration ball is the appropriate time to break that out. Maybe…do it privately for Michelle.”

London Mayor Boris Johnson & UK Prime Minister David Cameron

In a keynote speech delivered at the Tory Conference last month, London Mayor Boris Johnson had this to say about “Gangnam Style”: “Gangnam Style is very good. The Prime Minister and I danced Gangnam Style the other day, you will be shocked to discover.”

UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon

Last month, UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon gave his stamp of approval to PSY and “Gangnam Style,” saying he had seen it several times and he’s very proud of it. He added, “Through this promotion of arts we can better understand the culture and civilizations of other people. In this era of instability and intolerance we need to promote better understanding through the power of music.” 

Democratic Representative John Lewis

Democratic Representative John Lewis recently posted a “Gangnam Style” parody video on YouTube with the title, “Voting Gangnam Style.” The video was made to urge people to register and vote, as the main verse is changed to, “vote, vote, vote Gangnam style!”

U.S. Ambassador Sung Kim

Ambassador Sung Kim met PSY at the U.S. embassy in Seoul. He said, “I think PSY is a perfect example of the growing ties between the U.S. and Korea, and that his activities and success in the U.S. will enhance people-to-people ties between our two countries.”

Finance Minister Bahk Jae Wan

South Korea’s Finance Minister Bahk Jae Wan said the three Cs – cooperation, competition, and creativity – contributed to “Gangnam Style’s” success, and said that South Korea’s service sector should learn and adopt the same strategy.

Google Chairman Eric Schmidt

OK, so Google chairman Eric Schmidt isn’t exactly a politician, but we had to include him here because he has equal, if not more, influence than most politicians. This photo was snapped during his visit to Google’s Seoul office – the guy obviously knows how to have some fun!