PROGRAMMES
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[KCC On Stage] Shamanic Sensibility of Gayageum
[KCC On Stage] Shamanic Sensibility of Gayageum 12 May. 2026 (Tue) 20:00 @ Korean Cultural Center Free admission / Reservation required Reservations will open at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, 28 April via the link. KCC On Stage 2026: Discover Korean Performing Arts at the KCC! The Korean Cultural Centre presents Shamanic Sensibility of Gayageum, an experimental concert that moves between the tradition of Korean shamanic music and the frontiers of contemporary composition. Shamanic Sensibility of Gayageum brings together the artistic vision of gayageum performer Seyoun Park, the bold imagination of composer Jaein Hwang, and the refined sensibility of Hawai'i-based composer Donald Reid Womack, whose work reflects a deep engagement with East Asian musical traditions. The three artists' musical languages converge in a shared exploration of mu-ak — Korean shamanic music — presenting new works for gayageum rooted in the rhythmic vitality and emotional depth of shamanic ritual. The title carries a dual meaning drawn from the characters 巫 (mu, shamanism) and 無 (mu, nothingness). Through this ritual-inspired musical journey, the performance invites the audience to step away from the sensations of everyday life and drift — as if the boundary between dream and reality dissolves — into a state of immersive absorption. The archaic emotions and structures of shamanism are expressed through an avant-garde yet refined musical language, reinterpreting the essence of the shamanic tradition: healing. This work received the Special Jury Prize at the Seoul Arts Awards in 2025. Seyoun Park, 25-string gayageum, sanjo gayageum, steel gayageum, kkwaenggwari Hwayeon Lee, ajaeng Jooho Kim, percussion [Program] 1. Cosmos of the Sea (composed by Seyoun Park) * 25-string gayageum | Seyoun Park 2. Ollim: An Offering for sanjo gayageum and percussion (composed by Jaein Hwang) * Sanjo gayageum | Seyoun Park * Jing | Jooho Kim 3. Mu 巫 (composed by Donald Reid Womack) * Sanjo gayageum | Seyoun Park * Janggu | Jooho Kim 4. The Shamanistic Numbing Sequences — Deureonggaengi Etude for steel gayageum (composed by Jaein Hwang) * Steel gayageum & kkwaenggwari | Seyoun Park 5. Woven Sound (composed by Donald Reid Womack) * Sanjo gayageum | Seyoun Park * Ajaeng | Hwayeon Lee * Janggu | Jooho Kim 6. Saedarim (composed by Seyoun Park) * 25-string gayageum | Seyoun Park [Artists] Seyoun Park Seyoun Park is a gayageum performer recognised for the depth of her musicianship across both traditional and contemporary repertoire. She holds bachelor's, master's, and doctoral (DMA) degrees in gayageum from Seoul National University and is currently a member of the Contemporary Gugak Orchestra at the National Gugak Center. She has drawn wide attention in the Korean traditional music world for her work restoring forgotten old-style gayageum sanjo from early gramophone recordings. She is the recipient of the String Instrument Award at the KBS Gugak Awards (2020), the Palgongsaya Gugak Award (2025), and the Special Jury Prize at the Seoul Arts Awards (2025). Hwayeon Lee Hwayeon Lee is an ajaeng performer who holds bachelor's and master's degrees from the Korea National University of Arts and currently serves as a guiding member of the Contemporary Gugak Orchestra at the National Gugak Center. She is a founding member of the ajaeng ensemble Bow+ing and a designated holder of Korea's Intangible Cultural Heritage in Jongmyo Jeryeak and Seoul's Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Bak Jong-sun style Ajaeng Sanjo. Jooho Kim Jooho Kim is a percussionist who graduated from the Department of Korean Traditional Music at Seoul National University. He has distinguished himself in the contemporary Korean music scene, receiving the Silver Prize at the 14th 21C Korean Music Project and the Bronze Prize at the 8th Youth Challenge Competition (2023). [Composers] Donald Reid Womack A Guggenheim Fellow and Professor of Composition at the University of Hawai'i, Donald Reid Womack has composed over 100 works, including more than 60 for Korean, Japanese, and Chinese instruments. His music has been performed at Carnegie Hall, Suntory Hall, and the Seoul Arts Center by ensembles such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Symphony and the National Orchestra of Korea. Recognised as a pioneer of intercultural composition, he has been composing for Korean traditional instruments since 2008. Jaein Hwang Jaein Hwang is a composer and haegeum performer who graduated summa cum laude from Seoul National University and is currently pursuing a master's degree at the Mozarteum University Salzburg. He is the recipient of the Grand Prize at the 16th 21C Korean Music Project and a member of the neo-traditional ensemble Maegandang, which has appeared at WOMEX (Manchester), Small World Music (Toronto), and the International Mugham Festival (Baku). ※ This program was supported by the Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, and Korean Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (KOFICE) as part of the “Touring K-Arts” project.
Post Date 28-04-2026 -
Gala Concert Celebrating 125 Years of Korea-Belgium Friendship
Gala Concert Celebrating 125 Years of Korea-Belgium Friendship 22 Apr. 2026 (Wed) 19:30 @ Bozar, Hall M Free admission / Reservation required Reservations will open at 12:00 PM on Thursday, 9 April via Bozar. 125th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations: A Musical Journey of Friendship The Korean Cultural Center is pleased to present a special Gala Concert to celebrate the 125th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and Belgium, symbolizing the deep friendship and artistic exchange between the two nations. Held at Bozar, the heart of Belgian arts and culture, this performance will be a meaningful occasion to commemorate over a century of strong cultural bonds. The concert features seven leading artists from both countries, including principal players and members of the world-renowned La Monnaie Symphony Orchestra and Chorus. Their collaboration will serve as a musical bridge, connecting tradition and modernity, as well as Korea and Belgium, to deliver a deeply moving experience to the audience. The program harmoniously encompasses the rich musical heritage of both nations. Along with masterpieces by Belgian greats, the repertoire includes a special arrangement of 'Arirang'—Korea's most beloved folk melody—composed specifically for this anniversary to sing of the 125-year-long friendship. This concert stands as a musical tribute to the enduring bonds between Korea and Belgium, weaving together a century of shared history and cultural partnership. Yaeram Park, Flute (Principal Flute, La Monnaie Symphony Orchestra) Noémi Tiercet, Violin (Principal Second Violin, La Monnaie Symphony Orchestra) Clément Holvoet, Viola (Professor of Chamber Music, Royal Conservatory of Mons - Arts2) Yong-Jun Lee, Cello (Appointed Principal Cello, La Monnaie Symphony Orchestra) Pablo Matías Becerra, Piano (Soloist and Conductor of the Ensemble Vocal La Clé des Chants) Yesol Kim, Soprano (Soprani 1, La Monnaie Chorus) Geoffrey Degives, Tenor (Tenori 1, La Monnaie Chorus) [Program] W. A. Mozart, Flute Quartet in D major, K. 285 V. Monti, Czardas C. Franck, Sonata in A major (Arr. for Flute and Piano) – II. Allegro & IV. Allegretto poco mosso Young Min Choi, "Arirang" D. F. E. Auber, "Du pauvre seul ami fidèle" from La Muette de Portici Geung-Soo Rim, "Spring Approaches from across the River" J. Jongen, Concert à cinq, Op. 71 – I. Décidé
Post Date 09-04-2026 -
[KCC On Stage] Jazz Violinist Moeun Son
[KCC On Stage] Jazz Violinist Moeun Son 25 Mar. 2026 (Wed) 20:00 @ Korean Cultural Center Free admission / Reservation required Reservations will open at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, 10 March via the link. KCC On Stage 2026: Discover Korean Performing Arts at the KCC! The Korean Cultural Center is pleased to present a performance by Moeun Son, a jazz violinist currently garnering significant attention in the European jazz scene. In 2024, Moeun Son solidified her position as a next-generation jazz artist by becoming the first Korean to win the 'Prix d’Instrumentiste' at the prestigious La Défense Jazz Festival competition in France. Her music, which combines the precision of classical training with the freedom of jazz improvisation, is recognized for creating a unique realm often described as 'impressionist jazz.' For this performance, Moeun Son will be joined by pianist Dexter Goldberg, recognized as a 'Choc' artist by the prestigious French jazz publication <Jazz Magazine>, and guitarist Romain Habert, known for his delicate lyricism. Featuring Moeun Son's original compositions, this concert promises a musical journey reminiscent of a cinematic narrative. Moeun Son, violin Dexter Goldberg, piano Romain Habert, guitar [Program] Reflet Cinq notes roses Song of us Oiseau migrateur Bleusette (Toot Thielemans) Daybreak Nuit d'été en Corée Le manège Place des Abbesses La Silhouette de l'Ombre La danse D'un vieux café de Fado Mpop [Artists] Moeun Son Originally from Daegu, South Korea, and based in France since 2012, Moeun Son is a violinist and composer. She has mastered both classical and jazz music, developing her own unique musical world. She has received acclaim at numerous competitions, including the 'Prix d’Instrumentiste' at the La Défense Jazz Festival (2024) and '1st Prize for Composition' at the Trophées du Sunside (2022). Currently, she performs at major jazz venues such as 'Duc des Lombards' in Paris and leads her own project, <MOEUN>. Dexter Goldberg Born in Paris in 1987, Dexter Goldberg studied at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique de Paris (CNSDP). With his 2023 album <Caliboudja>, he was simultaneously awarded the 'Choc' by the prestigious French jazz magazine <Jazz Magazine> and 'Indispensable' by <Jazz News>. Based on the solid skills he built through collaborations with jazz legends like Benny Golson, he is active on the global stage. Romain Habert Born into a music-loving family, Romain Habert began playing guitar at the age of 12 and studied at the University of Montreal and the Conservatory of Paris. As the co-leader of the band <Crafting Quintet> and a trusted sideman, he is highly regarded by many talents in the Parisian jazz scene. He is also active as a film score composer, expanding his own sensitive and evocative musical palette.
Post Date 09-03-2026 -
Korean Musicians with the Antwerp Symphony Orchestra: Jaehong Park & Shiyeon Sung
Korean Musicians with the Antwerp Symphony Orchestra: Jaehong Park & Shiyeon Sung Through the partnership between the Korean Cultural Centre to the EU and Belgium and the Antwerp Symphony Orchestra, world-renowned pianist Jaehong Park and conductor Shiyeon Sung will meet local audiences. From monumental concertos to a three-city Belgian tour, we invite you to experience the deep musical journey and profound resonance presented by these two exceptional artists. Pianist Jaehong Park Pianist Jaehong Park, who has garnered international acclaim for his overwhelming technique and profound interpretation since winning the 2021 Ferruccio Busoni International Piano Competition, presents two special performances in Antwerp. [Wagner's Götterdämmerung] ㅇ Date & Time: 28 Feb. 2026 (Sat), 20:00 ㅇ Venue: Queen Elisabeth Hall, Antwerp ㅇ Concert Info & Tickets: Click here [Piano on Sunday morning] ㅇ Date & Time: 1 Mar. 2026 (Sun), 11:00 ㅇ Venue: Queen Elisabeth Hall, Antwerp ㅇ Concert Info & Tickets: Click here Conductor Shiyeon Sung ⓒYoungbin Park Maestra Shiyeon Sung, renowned for her delicate interpretation and sophisticated leadership on the world stage, will lead a three-city tour in Belgium featuring the 4th to 6th prize laureates of the upcoming '2026 Queen Elisabeth Cello Competition.' This tour will showcase her charismatic presence on stage as she collaborates with the newly named laureates of this prestigious competition. [Laureates' concert Queen Elisabeth Cello Competition 2026] ㅇ Tour Schedule & Venues - 6 Jun. 2026 (Sat), 20:00 | Concertgebouw Brugge, Bruges - 7 Jun. 2026 (Sun), 19:00 | Queen Elisabeth Hall, Antwerp - 8 Jun. 2026 (Mon), 20:15 | Bozar, Brussels ㅇ Concert Info & Tickets: Click here
Post Date 25-02-2026 -
[KCC On Stage] Cellist Yoonsoo Yeo & Violinist SooBeen Lee (with the ORCW) Event Date 22-01-2026
[KCC On Stage] Cellist Yoonsoo Yeo & Violinist SooBeen Lee (with the ORCW) 22 January 2026 (Thu) 20:00 @ Korean Cultural Center Free admission / Reservation required Reservations will open at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, 6 January via the link. *Announcement: Artist & Program Update Due to unavoidable personal circumstances, cellist Yewon Cho is no longer able to perform. We are pleased to announce that violinist SooBeen Lee will be performing in her place, joining cellist Yoonsoo Yeo for this special evening. Accompanied by the Orchestre Royal de Chambre de Wallonie under the direction of Jean Frédéric Molard, they will present an enriched program of Mozart and Kraft. KCC On Stage 2026: Discover Korean Performing Arts at the KCC! In collaboration with the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel, the Korean Cultural Center to Belgium presents its first performance of 2026, featuring rising K-Classic stars Yoonsoo Yeo and SooBeen Lee with the Orchestre Royal de Chambre de Wallonie. We invite you to experience the elegant melodies of Mozart and Kraft performed by these two talented young soloists, both Artists-in-Residence at the Music Chapel who are actively building their careers. Yoonsoo Yeo, cello SooBeen Lee, violin Orchestre Royal de Chambre de Wallonie [Program] W. A. Mozart, Divertimento in D Major, K.136 W. A. Mozart, Concerto for Violin and Orchestra No. 4 in D major, K. 218 (Violin: SooBeen Lee) A. Kraft, Concerto for Cello and Orchestra in C Major, Op. 4 (Cello: Yoonsoo Yeo) [Artists] Yoonsoo Yeo Cellist Yoonsoo Yeo gained international recognition after winning first prize at both the Antonio Janigro International Cello Competition and the Schoenfeld International String Competition in 2014. In 2025, he further proved his exceptional artistry by winning third prize at the Minato City International Cello Competition in Tokyo. A graduate of the Curtis Institute of Music, he is currently an Artist-in-Residence at the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel and performs on a 1934 Carl Becker cello, generously loaned by Mr. Higgin Kim, Chairman of Byucksan Engineering, through the support of Sejong Soloists. SooBeen Lee SooBeen Lee has been praised by the Washington Post for her “poised presence, a luxurious sound, spot-on intonation, and a bow arm that will surely be the envy of her peers”. She has appeared as a soloist with major Korean orchestras and American orchestras such as the Detroit Symphony and Oregon Symphony. A first prize winner of the 2014 Young Concert Artists International Auditions, she also captured first prize at the 2013 Moscow International David Oistrakh Violin Competition. She currently plays the Giuseppe Guadagnini Cremona 1794, on loan from the Kumho Cultural Foundation. Orchestre Royal de Chambre de Wallonie In 1958, Lola Bobesco founded the ensemble "Les Solistes de Bruxelles," which was later renamed the "Ensemble d'archets Eugène Ysaÿe" and finally the Orchestre Royal de Chambre de Wallonie. Based in Mons, the Orchestre Royal de Chambre de Wallonie has been a partner of the Queen Elisabeth International Music Competition for over 20 years and is a frequent collaborator with the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel, Bozar, Flagey, and numerous Belgian festivals. Led by Music Director Vahan Mardirossian, the orchestra also performs regularly under its concertmaster, Jean-Frédéric Molard.
Post Date 06-01-2026