The Korean Art Song Research Society is set to present its 59th annual concert, "Peace & Joy," on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 7:30 PM at the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts Chamber Hall. This special event aims to provide comfort and inspiration to audiences through the distinctive lyricism and artistic depth of Korean art songs. Amidst a turbulent era, the concert promises to be a poignant occasion for sharing peace and the joy of life through the power of music.
May 21, 2026: A Concert of Peace and Joy
Hosted by the Korean Art Song Research Society and organized by Hyundai Culture Planning, this annual concert aims to offer solace and profound emotional resonance through the lyrical beauty and artistic depth inherent in Korean art songs. Centered around the themes of "Peace" and "Joy," the program will explore a rich spectrum of emotions, encompassing life, nature, love, and hope, all expressed through music.
The 59th annual concert is meticulously crafted around beloved Korean art songs and folk songs, promising a program that resonates with all attendees. More than just a showcase of vocal music, this event is expected to be a unique opportunity to rediscover the distinctive sensibility and artistic value that emerge from the synergy of Korean poetry and music.
Leading Vocalists and a Diverse Program
The concert will feature a distinguished lineup of top vocalists, active both in Korea and internationally, who will present the rich and varied appeal of Korean art songs. The roster includes sopranos Jeong Sun-hwa, Lee Yoon-sook, Ryu Mun-kyu, Park Sang-hee, Lee Mi-young, Park Hyun-ju, Hwang Jin-young, and Park Na-ri; tenors Kim Ju-wan and Im Hong-jae; baritone Ian; and bass Lee Seung-hee. Their performances will be expertly accompanied by pianists Jeong Young-ha and Kim Geon-wa, adding to the program's overall refinement. Song Ki-chang will host the event, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience for the audience.
The concert is structured into two distinct parts. Part 1 will feature cherished Korean art songs such as "In the Flower Cloud," "Until the Peonies Bloom," "Let Me Bloom a Flower," "Star," "First Love," and "Because You Are There," celebrating the beauty of nature, love, and life. Part 2 will delve into compositions rich with deeper emotions, including "Namchon," "River in My Heart," "Shin Arirang," "Where That Cloud Flows," "Dongsimcho," and "Bakyeonpokpo." These selections will highlight the unique lyricism and national sentiment characteristic of Korean art songs, aiming to evoke profound empathy and resonance from the audience.
Reaffirming the Value of Korean Art Songs and a Message of Hope
For many years, the Korean Art Song Research Society has been dedicated to the promotion and advancement of Korean art songs. Through its annual concert series, the society has consistently illuminated the artistic value and contemporary relevance of these songs, thereby preserving their rich legacy. The 59th concert is poised to be another significant event, widely sharing the emotional power and musical beauty intrinsic to Korean art songs. A particular highlight will be various art songs derived from modern Korean poetry, which are expected to deliver profound emotion through the seamless synergy of poetic verse and musical expression.
Soprano Jeong Sun-hwa, President of the Korean Art Song Research Society, underscored the concert's profound significance, stating, "This performance was meticulously prepared to share peace, solace, and the joy of life through music during these turbulent times. We sincerely hope that the warm emotions and deep resonance embedded in Korean art songs will genuinely connect with our audience." This concert is generously supported by Logos Law Firm, Dream in Samsong Clinic, Monthly REVIEW, ITX Marketing, Dream Town, Sejong Economic Newspaper, and iNEWS24.
