Concerts, Museums & Performances
CLASSICAL CONCERTS
Trio Thalia "Wind from the North"
Sejong Center for the Performing Arts (Chamber Hall)
Sept. 28
Trio Thalia consists of violinist Kim E-Jung, cellist Lee Sook-jung and pianist Oh Yoon-ju. The three will perform mainly romantic and lyrical music from Northern Europe, composed by Grieg and Sibelius. Tickets cost from 20,000 won to 50,000 won. Visit www.musicphil.co.kr or call (02) 706-1481. Located near exit 8 of Gwanghwamun Station on subway line 5.
Boris Berezovsky's Russian Concerto Night
Seoul Arts Center (Concert Hall)
Sept. 15
Boris Berezovsky, known as the heir of Russian Pianism, will perform beautiful piano concertos with Gyeonggi Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Dmitry Yablonsky. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 100,000 won. Visit www.mastmedia.co.kr or call (02) 541-6234. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3.
Chung Sun-yee Cello Recital
Seoul Arts Center
Sept. 16
The lead cellist of the Seoul Academy Ensemble, Chung Sun-yee will play works by Vivaldi, Schnittke and Chopin. Tickets cost 20,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call (02) 2278-6448. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3.
Isang Yun Festival
Sept. 18
Celebrating late Isang Yun's 90th anniversary, the Isang Yun Festival takes place in Seoul. The Seoul Isang Yun Ensemble will hold their very first performance at the celebration. Tickets cost from 20,000 won to 30,000 won. Visit www.isangyun.org or call (02) 723-0364. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3.
Kim Sang-jin Brahms Viola Recital?
Hoam Art Hall
Sept. 19
Korea's top violist Kim Sang-jin presents the beautiful yet sad music of Brahms. A Julliard School graduate, he was the first viola winner of the Donga Competition. This is a great chance to understand the charms of the viola. Tickets cost from 22,000 won to 55,000 won. Located near exit 9 of City Hall Station on subway line 1 and 2.
German Brass in Korea
Sept. 30
German Brass shows the power of brass in Korea. Four trumpeters, three trombonists, two horn players and a tuba player will present beautiful melodies from Bach to "Mexico Lindo." Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 70,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call 1588-7890. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3.
David Garrett's "Salut d'amour"
Oct. 3
Young and sexy violinist David Garrett will perform pieces from Beethoven, Brahms, Sarasate, and of course, "Salute d'amour" by Elgar. Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 70,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call (02) 3461-0976. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3.
Opera Macbeth
Oct 4 - 8
The National Opera Company of Korea presents Opera Macbeth led by Maurizio Benini. This tragic story written by Shakespeare and Verdi shows the subtle deviousness of people on an exquisitely set stage. Tickets cost 10,000 won to 150,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call 1588-7890. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3.
Kim Yong-bae's 11 O'clock Concert
Through Dec. 13
Pianist Kim Yong-bae, with other artists, has arranged a series of concerts to familiarize the public with classical music. Concerts are on the second Thursday of every month, at 11:00 a.m. Tickets range from 20,000 won to 27,000 won. Visit www.sac.or.kr or call (02) 580-1234. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3.
"Mozart Symphony, Serenade & Concerto for Piano"
Seoul Tutti Chamber Orchestra, one of the pillars of Korean chamber music will perform timeless Mozart pieces with pianist Lee Soo-jin as soloist. The program includes Symphony No. 32 in G Major K. 318, Serenade No. 9 in D Major K.320 "Posthorn" and Concerto for Piano No. 21 in C major K.467. Call (02) 547-2629.
BIG TICKETS
Marriage of Figaro
Sept. 19 - 20
The Vienna State Opera, one of the world's most reputed opera companies with a 138-year-old history, will perform Mozart's beloved opera piece led by Seiji Ozawa. Tickets range from 50,000 won to 450,000 won. Visit www.clubbalcony.com or call 1588-7890. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3.
Ennio Morricone Film Concerto
Gymnastics Stadium in Olympic Park
Oct. 2- 3
The great master of motion picture music, Ennio Morricone will finally come to Korea. He carefully chose the pieces for this Korean concert, including music from "Once Upon a Time in America," "The Legend of 1900" and "Cinema Paradiso." Tickets cost from 60,000 won to 180,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call 1588-7890. Located near exit 3 of Olympic Park Station on subway line 5.
Budapest Festival Orchestra in Korea
Seoul Arts Center (9th) / Sejong Center for the Performing Arts (10th)
Oct. 9-10
Budapest Festival Orchestra, a young orchestra from Hungary will play classics of Beethoven, Chopin and Tchaikovsky with music director Ivan Fischer and pianist Kim Sun-wook. Tickets range from 40,000 won to 200,000 won. Visit www.bfo2007.com or call (02) 751-9682. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3 (9th). Located near exit 8 of Gwanghwamun Station on subway line 5 (10th).
Beyonce
Gymnastics Stadium, Olympic Park
Nov. 9-10
R&B superstar Beyonce will perform in Seoul for the first time in November. Beyonce is expected to perform hits such as "Crazy in Love," "Irreplaceable," Deja vu" and "Beautiful Liar." The concert will be held at the Gymnastics Stadium, Olympic Park on Nov. 9 and 10, as part of her "B'Day World Tour." Ticket information for Beyonce's concert is not yet available.
MUSEUMS
Buddhist Images of Laos
Museum of Korean Buddhist Art
Through Sept. 29
Special exhibition of "Buddhist Images of Laos" has about 50 Buddhist statues on display. There are Buddhist images not only made by professional sculptors but also by general public. Docents are available on 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. every Friday and Saturday. Visit www.buddhistmuseum.co.kr or call (02) 766-6003. Located near exit 3 of Anguk Station on subway line 3.
Sutra Painting: In Search of Buddhahood
National Museum of Korea
Through Sept. 16
The museum is holding a special exhibition, titled "Sutra Painting: In Search Buddhahood" at the Special Exhibition Gallery until Sept. 16. Sutra paintings are referred to as the Buddhist scriptures, depicted in its various handwritings and paintings. The museum's exhibition is the first of its kind in Korea, featuring over a hundred sutra paintings, which are considered to be national treasures. Located near exit 2 of Ichon Station on subway line 4.
Portrait Sketches of Joseon Dynasty
Through Oct. 28
The museum is holding an exhibition titled "Portrait Sketches of the Joseon Dynasty" to show the painting skills and techniques through both portraits and sketches of that period at the painting room of Gallery I of the Permanent Exhibition Hall. The exhibit features 35 artworks, including the Portrait Sketch of Choe Deok-ji (Treasure Number 594). Located at Ichon Station on subway line 4, exit 2.
Where Were All Those Books of Joseon Dynasty Published?
Through Oct. 21
This exhibition shows the sheer volume of documents and publications that were published during the Joseon Kingdom. Located at Ichon Station on subway line 4, exit 2.
Yoo Chang-jong Collection in Donation Gallery
Through Oct. 14
The museum displays popular bird patterns used as decorative motifs over time, from imaginary birds like the phoenix and jujak (red phoenix) to cranes and magpies, each layered with different symbolical meanings. Located at Ichon Station on subway line 4, exit 2.
DANCE
Ballet with Commentary
Anyang Art Center
Through Sept. 15
The Korea National Ballet presents exclusive interpretations of "Tchaikovsky pas de Deux," Giselle" Act 2 and other performances. Tickets cost from 20,000 won to 30,000 won. Visit www.ayac.or.kr or call (031) 389-5200. Located near Sungkyul Christian Univ. exit of Myeonghak Station on subway line 1.
Symphonic Arts: Bari
Arko Arts Theater
Renowned choreographer and dancer, Ahn Eun-me presents the new performance "Bari." Based on the Korean tale of "Baridegi," who was abandoned when she was a baby, it is an innovative attempt to recreate Korean traditions from a modern approach. Tickets cost from 20,000 won to 50,000 won. Visit www.arko.or.kr or call (02) 760-4500. Located near exit 2 of Hyehwa Station on subway line 4.
2007 Art Frontier, 4th Series
Chongdong Theater
Sept. 15 -16
Two popular male dancers show their talent at the Art Frontier. Lee Jeong-yoon is a winner of Donga Dance Competition and a member of the National Dance Company. Choi Mun-seok is the winner of Critic's Choice 2007 and has been invited to the Greece Dance Festival. Tickets cost from 25,000 won to 30,000 won. Visit www.chongdong.com or call (02) 751-1500. Located near exits 1 and 12 of City Hall Station on subway line 1 and 2.
Universal Ballet II
Sept. 20 - 21
The second Universal Ballet Company will perform three extraordinary dances, "Minus 7" by Ohad Naharin, "Bamboo, Bamboo!" by Baek Yeon-ok and "Orchid" by Lee Young-ill. Tickets cost from 10,000 won to 40,000 won. Visit www.ubcballet.com or call (02) 2204-1041. Located near exit 2 of Hyehwa Station on subway line 4.
MAPA / Les Chambres des Jacques
Oct. 3 - 4
Ballets Jazz de Montreal presents Rodrigo Pederneiras' "MAPA and Aszure Barton," "Les Chambres des Jacques" as a part of the Seoul Performing Arts Festival. Tickets cost from 20,000 won to 50,000 won. Visit www.spaf21.com or call (02) 3673-2561. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3.
Ballerina Who Loved a B-Boy
Hongik University B-Boy Theater
Through Sept. 30
With a reenergized cast and storyline, this entertaining story of a ballerina who falls hopelessly in love with the world of hip-hop comes back on stage near Hongik Univ. Tickets cost from 30,000 won (high school students and below) to 50,000 (adults and foreigners). Visit www.sjbboyz.com or call (02) 323-5233. Located near exit 5 of Hongik Univ. Station on subway line 2.
B-Boy Korea
B-Boy Korea Theater
Traditional Korean musical instruments are not traditional any more in "B-Boy Korea." A perfect combination of dance, music and mime, this is the universal performance for anyone. Tickets range 40,000 won to 50,000 won. Visit www.i-pmc.co.kr or call (02) 721-7636. Located near exits 1 and 12 of City Hall Station on subway line 1 and 2.
Julia's Brunch Ballet
Universal Arts Center
Through Nov. 15
The Universal Ballet Company will perform different masterpieces for each season. Tickets range from 15,000 won to 20,000 won. Visit www.universalballet.com. Located near Achasan Station on subway line 5.
POP & JAZZ
Lee Juck Concert - Songs Made from Wood
Art Center, Dongduk Women's Univ.
Lee Juck will hold an encore concert to his small theater concerts in July, which were a great success. Tickets cost 50,000 won. Visit www.mooboong.com or call (02) 747-1253. Located near exit 1 of Hyehwa Station on subway line 4.
4th Jarasum International Jazz Festival
Jarasum area
This Jazz Festival consists of a whole range of jazz performances. This is a good chance to enjoy jazz music of around 200 artists. It also offers a special jazz train from Seoul to Gapyeong. Tickets cost 10,000 won (student, oneday) to 50,000 won (adult, three-days). Visit www.jarasumjazz.com or call (031) 581-2813. Located in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi Province.
Groove Party; Let's Play
Sangsang Madang
Sept. 21
Groove All Stars and Commonground will perform their soul and funky jazz music. Tickets cost 15,000 won (in advance) and 20,000 won (at the door). Visit www.sangsangmadang.com or call (02) 330-6213. Located near exit 5 of Hongik Univ. Station on subway line 2.
FreeTEMPO Harmonizing
Gayageum Hall, Sheraton Walkerhill
Celebrating their 4th single, "Harmony," FreeTEMPO goes on a DJ tour and party with their muse, Sheean. Tickets cost 33,000 won (in advance) and 44,000 won (at the door). Visit ticket.interpark.com or call (02) 543-6831. Located near exit 2 of Gangbyeon Station on subway line 2 (shuttle available).
Seoul Tokyo Love Festa
Vista Hall, Sheraton Walkerhill
Oct. 5
An all-night six-hour party with stylish artists from Korea and Japan. Clazziquai Project, m-flo and Soul뭗 Out will heat up the party with W & Whale, Dynamic Duo and House Rulez, opening the night. Tickets cost from 55,000 won to 70,000 won. Visit www.fluxusmusic.com or (02) 545-9174. Located near exit 2 of Gangbyeon Station on subway line 2 (shuttle available).
Maya of Funky Music
Main Auditorium, Yonsei Univ.
Oct. 6 - 7
One of the top Korean female rockers, Maya will rock the night with her funky music. Tickets range from 55,000 won to 66,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call 1588-7890. Located near exits 2 and 3 of Sinchon Station on subway line 2.
2007 Jazz Summit
KT Art Hall
Various jazz groups and soloists will perform everyday. Tickets cost 1,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call 1588-7890. Located near exit 2 of Gwanghwamun Station on subway line 5.
PLAYS & MUSICALS
Sweeney Todd
LG Arts Center
Sept. 15 - Oct. 14
In Victorian London, a mysterious barber Sweeney Todd and Mrs. Lovett, whose meat pies are the worst in London, become conspirators in a dark plot that results in mass murder. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 100,000 won. Visit www.musicalsweeneytodd.co.kr or call (02) 501-7888. Located near exit 7 of Yeoksam Station on subway line 2.
Chicago
Sejong Center for the Performing Arts
Sept. 18 - 30
A masterpiece that has charmed the stage and the screen, the musical "Chicago" finally comes to Korea with stars like Ock Ju-hyun starring as Roxie Hart. Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 130,000 won. Visit www.musicalchicago.co.kr or call (02) 577-1987. Located near exit 8 of Gwanghwamun Station on subway line 5.
Lion King
Charlotte Theater
There are only two months left until "The Lion King" draws its curtains in Korea. Don't miss the great harmony of various animals including great lion Simba and his girlfriend Nala. Tickets cost from 35,000 won to 90,000 won. Visit www.lion-king.co.kr or call (02) 588-7890. Located near exit 3 of Jamsil Station on subway line 2 and 8.
Sorrows of Young Werther
Goethe's story of a lovesick young Werther has turned into a musical. Tickets range from 30,000 won to 70,000 won. Visit www.gatgagi.com or call (02) 742-9881. Located near exit 2 of Ichon Station on subway line 4.
Great Catsby Season 2
Daehangno Art Madang
Open Run
"The Great Catsby" is not "The Great Gatsby." This is a Korean original musical based on the web cartoon of the same name. It is a love story of the twenties with original numbers written by Atmosphere. Tickets cost 40,000 won. Visit www.greatcatsby.com or call (02) 338-6685. Located near exit 2 of Hyehwa Station on subway line 4.
Music in My Heart Season 3
PMC Jayu Theater
A sweet romantic comedy, "Music in My Heart" is a long-running musical. Andy, member of famous Korean boyband Shinhwa, joins the cast this season. Visit www.naemaum.com or call (02) 738-8289. Located near exit 1 of Hyehwa Station on subway line 4.