SINGAPORE – A Year of Cultural Shifts and Trends in 2024
As Singapore navigated through 2024, the lifestyle scene was marked by a series of events and trends that captured the public’s imagination. From controversial public art to culinary revivals, the year was a tapestry of cultural moments that reflected the evolving identity of the city-state. Here are 26 highlights that left their mark on Singapore’s lifestyle landscape.
A: Viral Song "Apt." Takes the World by Storm
K-pop sensation Rose, alongside American singer-songwriter Bruno Mars, released the infectious track "Apt." on October 18. Inspired by a South Korean drinking game, the song quickly became a viral hit, overshadowing releases from her Blackpink bandmates. Its catchy chorus, “Apateu, apateu, apateu, apateu,” resonated with fans globally, making it one of the defining songs of the year.
B: The Bookstore is Dead, Long Live the Bookstore
2024 was a challenging year for print culture in Singapore. Iconic establishments like Times Bookstores and Epigram Coffee Bookshop announced closures, marking a significant shift in the literary landscape. The shuttering of these beloved venues sparked public outcry and highlighted the ongoing struggles of physical bookstores in a digital age.
C: Chicken Rice Enjoys a Renaissance
The beloved dish of chicken rice found itself in the spotlight as celebrities and influencers began to champion it, leading to a culinary renaissance. Established restaurant chains joined hawkers in a friendly competition, elevating this humble dish to new heights of popularity and innovation.
D: Deadpool & Wolverine Break the Box-Office Rule Book
In a surprising turn of events, "Deadpool & Wolverine" shattered box-office expectations in Singapore, becoming the highest-grossing M18-rated film of all time. The film’s success challenged the conventional wisdom that family-friendly films dominate the box office, proving that audiences are eager for more mature content.
E: Electrified Vehicles Go Further Than Ever
The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) continued to reshape Singapore’s transportation landscape in 2024. With advancements in hybrid technology, motorists found themselves increasingly drawn to vehicles that promised longer ranges and lower fuel costs, signaling a shift towards more sustainable transportation options.
F: Friendship Bracelets and The Eras Tour Mania
Taylor Swift’s "The Eras Tour" in March brought an unexpected boon to bead shops across Singapore. Fans, known as Swifties, flocked to these stores to create friendship bracelets, a trend that became synonymous with the concert experience, showcasing the power of pop culture to influence local businesses.
G: Gen Z and Alpha Turn ‘Brain Rot’ and Bizarre Memes into New Language
As language evolves, so too does the lexicon of younger generations. In 2024, Gen Z and Gen Alpha embraced a new slang that reflects their digital upbringing, drawing from viral memes and online subcultures. Terms like "skibidi" and "sigma" became part of everyday conversation, illustrating the dynamic nature of language in a hyperconnected world.
H: Hit Musical Hamilton Premieres in Singapore
The anticipation surrounding the arrival of "Hamilton" in Singapore was palpable. The acclaimed musical, which chronicles the life of American founding father Alexander Hamilton, captivated audiences at the Sands Theatre, marking a significant cultural milestone for the city.
I: Immersive Experiences Level Up
In an era dominated by digital distractions, immersive experiences gained traction in Singapore. Exhibitions like "Impressions Of Monet: The Experience" drew massive crowds, demonstrating a growing appetite for engaging, interactive art experiences that transport visitors beyond the ordinary.
J: Marvel Hero Jitter Creates Discourse About Cultural, Neurodivergent Stereotypes
The introduction of Jitter, a Singaporean mutant in the Marvel universe, sparked discussions around cultural representation and neurodiversity. With her unique ability to temporarily adopt skills, Jitter became a symbol of the complexities of identity and the challenges faced by those who navigate societal expectations.
K: K-pop’s Terrible, Horrible, No-Good, Very Bad Year
2024 was tumultuous for the K-pop industry, marked by scandals and controversies. The fallout from internal disputes, particularly involving the girl group NewJeans and their label Ador, highlighted the pressures and challenges faced by artists in the highly competitive music scene.
L: ‘Low and No’ Drink Trend Bubbles Up
The demand for non-alcoholic beverages surged in 2024, with consumers opting for healthier alternatives. The trend towards "low and no" drinks reflected a broader societal shift towards wellness, as more people sought to reduce their alcohol consumption in favor of refreshing, health-conscious options.
M: More Hope, Less Shame Around Menopause
In a significant cultural shift, discussions around menopause became more open and supportive in 2024. The inaugural Menopause Festival organized by femtech start-up Surety marked a turning point, empowering women to share their experiences and seek help without stigma.
N: Nanyang Kopi’s Snazzy Iterations Stir Up Interest Among Young Consumers
Traditional Nanyang coffee experienced a revival, appealing to younger consumers with innovative twists. Retro-themed cafes began serving unique variations, such as Coconut Coffee and Soymilk Coffee, blending nostalgia with modern tastes.
O: Ozempic, the Breakthrough Drug for Diabetes and Weight Loss
Ozempic emerged as a game-changing treatment in 2024, gaining popularity not only for managing Type 2 diabetes but also for its weight-loss benefits. The drug’s dual action captured public attention, leading to widespread discussions about health and wellness.
P: Pasta Goes Artisanal
The culinary scene in Singapore saw a surge in artisanal pasta offerings in 2024. Diners flocked to new establishments that showcased handmade pasta and complex sauces, elevating this beloved dish to gourmet status while keeping prices accessible.
Q: Quitting the Food and Beverage Scene
The competitive nature of Singapore’s food and beverage industry took its toll in 2024, with several high-profile restaurants closing their doors. The landscape shifted as diners became more discerning, leading to a wave of closures that underscored the challenges of maintaining a successful dining establishment.
R: Rising Mercury Shifts Seasons and Impacts Travel Plans
As climate change continued to manifest, 2024 saw unprecedented heatwaves affecting travel plans globally. The rising temperatures prompted discussions about sustainability and the need for adaptive strategies in tourism.
S: Smoking Samsui Woman Sparks Controversial Public Art Debate
A mural depicting a young samsui woman with a cigarette ignited a heated debate in Singapore. The Urban Redevelopment Authority’s directive to remove the cigarette from the mural raised questions about artistic expression and cultural representation, highlighting the complexities of public art in a modern context.
T: TikTok’s Very Mindful, Very Demure Reach
TikTok solidified its status as a cultural powerhouse in 2024, shaping trends and fostering cross-cultural exchanges. The platform’s influence was evident in various aspects of pop culture, from music to fashion, as it became a breeding ground for new ideas and movements.
U: Ugly Shoes Stand the Test of Time
The trend of "ugly shoes" continued to thrive in 2024, with unconventional designs becoming staples in modern wardrobes. This movement reflected a broader acceptance of individuality and self-expression in fashion.
V: Virtual Tools Make Travel Experiences More Personal and Efficient
The travel industry embraced technological advancements in 2024, with AI and machine learning enhancing the personalization of travel experiences. These innovations allowed travelers to tailor their journeys to their preferences, making travel more accessible and enjoyable.
W: Warabimochi Stretches Taste Buds with Variety
The arrival of Warabimochi Kamakura in Singapore sparked a mochi craze in 2024. Long queues formed as customers flocked to try the brand’s unique offerings, showcasing the growing popularity of Japanese snacks in the local food scene.
X: X Factor of Charli XCX and the Pop Girlie Domination
Women dominated the music charts in 2024, with artists like Charli XCX, Sabrina Carpenter, and Billie Eilish leading the charge. The release of highly anticipated albums from pop queens showcased the power of female artists in shaping the contemporary music landscape.
Y: Youth Rewrite Social Norms
In 2024, younger generations continued to challenge societal norms, advocating for underconsumption and sustainability. This movement reflected a growing awareness of the environmental impact of consumerism and a desire for meaningful change.
Z: Zoo Baby Star Moo Deng Takes Over the Internet
Moo Deng, a baby pygmy hippo, captured hearts and headlines in 2024 with her playful antics. The internet sensation became a symbol of joy and cuteness, reminding audiences of the simple pleasures found in nature.
As Singapore embraced these diverse trends and moments, the city-state continued to evolve, reflecting the dynamic interplay of culture, art, and lifestyle in a rapidly changing world.
