NSW North Coast rockers, Smart Artists announced Wednesday that they will headline a pop festival in Pyongyang, North Korea next spring.

While details are still sketchy at this point, it is believed that the festival will occur sometime in late September or early October. No other performers have been confirmed at this point, but Smart Artists will definitely be the headlining act.

Rhythm guitarist Peter Hall went on to say that the opportunity to play in North Korea seemed odd at first, but then it all made sense. “Our music has always appealed to varying types of fans. Basically, we will play wherever we are wanted. So if it’s the most communist country in the world that wants us there, we’ll do it. We’re just like that,” said Hall.

Li-Dong Phlem, a spokesperson for the North Korean Department of Culture, said that the entire country is eagerly awaiting the spring pop festival.

“We are very, very eager to have this performance,” said Phlem. “I must be honest, though, Smart Artists were not our first choice. We really wanted Big Country to headline the festival, but I just recently found out that their lead singer killed himself five years ago. We don’t get much international news here” he said.

When asked what made him choose Smart Artists, Phlem said that the idea came from his wife. “Liu has always had a thing for Smart Artists. She said that ‘Route 66′ makes her hot. So, for me, the choice was obvious. And the price was right.” concluded Phlem.