YouTube pop sensation Psy to play free concert at University Mall, Gangnam Style

TAMPA BAY - South Korean super sensation, Psy, signed up for the Jingle Ball, sponsored by radio station WFLZ, 93.3.  But he had to cancel after the President of the United States came calling.

Still, Psy plans to play the Tampa Bay area with a free performance Saturday, December 8.

We know he's popular.  YouTube hailed his song the most watched video ever, with nearly a billion rocking to "Gangnam Style."
 
Turns out Psy is a pretty nice guy.  After he bagged his scheduled appearance in Tampa for a gig at the White House, his rep said he felt so bad, he asked the the sponsor, 93.3 FLZ, how he could make it up to them. Radio officials asked Psy if he could help promote their concert a day earlier at University Mall. He agreed.
 
Shoppers like Steven Davilla could not believe it.
 
"I just got my hours cut, and I will still miss work to see him," Davilla said.
 
The mall is in a frenzy. Shoppers literally broke out in "Gangnam Style" when asked what they thought about the pop-rappers upcoming performance
 
For him to come here is a really, really big. It is awesome. It really is a big thing," said Cruz.

It's also a marketer's dream. "The opportunity is once in a lifetime," said Keily Potter with University Mall.

Potter said the mall partnered with 93.3 to promote the Jingle Ball in hopes of getting more foot traffic.

University Mall has struggled with image even after a $12 million make-over In 2008.
 
"Psy coming here really is more than we could have hoped for," said Potter.

Potter said they expect thousands.  They've hired extra officers and even consulted Homeland Security, who gave them advice on handling large crowds.

John Choi, who owns three stores, says Psy is giving retailers the best gift possible.
 
"I think it is going to bring a lot of traffic who have not been to this mall lately. I think it's going to bring a lot of revenue," said Choi.
 
And Choi can't help feel some pride. Psy comes from his country of South Korea.  He said it doesn't surprise him at all that the sensation didn't want to let down his fans in Florida.
 
"That is what Koreans generally are.  They stick by their words," said Choi.
 
No doubt, Psy's actions landed him on the good list. Either that or Santa is just a fan.  Shoppers had no problem getting the Jolly Old Elf jamming to "Gangnam Style."

The concert is free. It will be standing room only. 93.3 will have invite shoppers to register for a meet and greet with Psy after the concert. He is expected to take the stage at 4:30 PM. For more information visit the 93.3 website.