Lee Geon-yong

By Rachel Lee

Lee Geon-yong, a professor at Korea National University of Arts, was tapped Friday to head the Seoul Metropolitan Opera.

Lee, 65, received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Seoul National University (SNU) and also studied at Goethe University Frankfurt in Germany. The professor has taught composition at SNU and Korea National University of Arts since 1979. He has also produced a number of Korean lyrical songs, choruses and operas.

“I will do my best to enhance the position of Seoul Metropolitan Opera based on my 30 years of experience and know-how in the industry,” said Lee in a press release. He also said he will produce diverse operas and offer more opportunities for young, up-and-coming singers.

The Sejong Center also appointed Kim Myung-yup, adviser of the Korea Chorus Conductors' Association, as head of the Seoul Metropolitan Chorus. Kim, 68, has taught as a professor at Yonsei University and Chugye University for the Arts. He also served as artistic director of the National Chorus of Korea.