Concerts, Museums & Performances
Classical Concerts
Kim Dong-gyu Concert
Seoul Arts Center
Feb.1
Join Korea's favorite baritone Kim Dong-gyu at his concert, ``For the Beautiful You.'' He will perform with the Mostly Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Park Sang-hyun. Kim will sing his personal favorite arias, classics and also pop songs. Tickets cost 30,000 won to 100,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call (02) 399-1111. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3.
Aram Nuri New Year's Concert with Sejong Soloists
Goyang Aram Nuri Arts Complex
Jan. 22
Korean classical music lovers will get a glimpse of Richard Yongjae O'Neill and the Sejong Soloists. Tickets range from 20,000 won to 27,000 won. Visit www.artgy.or.kr or call 1588-7890. Located near exit 3 of Jeongbalsan Station on subway line 3.
Gum Nanse and the Euro-Asian Philharmonic Orchestra's New Year Concert
Jan. 23
Renowned conductor Gum Nanse will start the New Year with a classic performance at the Seoul Arts Center. It will be a great opportunity to enjoy and welcome the busy New Year with grand yet soothing classical melodies. Tickets cost from 20,000 won to 80,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call (02) 3473-8744. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3.
Seoul Metropolitan Youth Orchestra's ``Between the Years''
Sejong Center for the Performing Arts
Dec. 30
``Between the Years'' is an annual concert held in late December. It will offer classical music performed by young yet talented musicians. It will be a good chance to wrap up 2007 and prepare for a new year full of hope. Tickets range from 10,000 won to 25,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call (02) 399-1111. Located near exit 8 of Gwanghwamun Station on subway line 5.
Cantabile Concert
Jan. 5
Japanese comic and soap opera Nodame Cantabile is actualized on stage. S Orchestra under the leadership of conductor Choi Soo-yeol, accompanied by pianist Lee Hee-ju, will play classical numbers from the original cartoon. Tickets cost from 25,000 won to 55,000 won. Visit ticket.interpark.com or (02) 6372-3242. Located near exit 8 of Gwanghwamun Station on subway line 5.
Andras Schiff the First Piano Recital in Korea
Feb. 24
Praised by the New York Times as being the ``Best pianist to play Bach in the whole classical world,'' Andras Schiff will visit Korean fans for the first time. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 120,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call (02) 541-6234. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3.
Kim Jeong-won Farewell Concert
Dec. 29
Renowned pianist Kim Julius Jeong-won wraps up his national concert tour in Seoul. Debussy's ``Suite Bergamasque,'' Beethoven's ``Moonlight Sonata'' and Mussorgsky's ``Pictures at an Exhibition'' will be played at the concert. Tickets cost from 10,000 won to 50,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call (02) 399-1111. Located near exit 8 of Gwanghwamun Station on subway line 5.
Seoul Metropolitan Junior Chorus
Conducted by Won Hak-yon, the Seoul Metropolitan Junior Chorus will sing numbers from the musical ``The Sleeping Beauty.'' Tickets cost from 15,000 won to 25,000 won. Visit ticket.interpark.com or call 1544-1555. Located near exit 8 of Gwanghwamun Station on subway line 5.
New Year'S Eve Concert
Dec. 31
Wrap up the year with timeless classical music such as ``Ruslan and Ludmilla'' ``Overture,'' ``Song to the Moon'' from ``Rusalka'' and more. Tickets range from 30,000 won to 60,000 won. Visit ticket.interpark.com or call (02) 580-1300. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3.
New Year's Concert With cellist Chung Myung-hwa
Hoam Art Hall
Jan. 4 & 6
Cellist Chung Myung-hwa with pianist Kim Sun-wook will play cello sonatas written by Debussy, Rachmaninov and Brahms. Tickets range from 30,000 won to 50,000 won. Visit www.credia.co.kr or call (02) 751-9606. Located near exit 9 of City Hall Station on subway line 1 and 2.
Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra Subscription Concert
Jan. 6
Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra will play a Shostakovich's Symphony and Schumann's Piano Concert. Sung Shi-yeon will conduct the orchestra while Sergio Tiempo will play the piano. Tickets cost from 10,000 won to 50,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr call (02) 399-1111. Located near exit 8 of Gwanghwamun Station on subway line 5.
Joy of Strings Concert
Jan. 11
Joy of Strings, a string ensemble, will give a concert to celebrate their 10th anniversary and the New Year. Their repertoire includes Mozart's Divertimento and Piazzolla's Tango Ballet. Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 50,000 won. Visit ticket.interpark.com or call (02) 780-5054. Located near exit 8 of Gwanghwamun Station on subway line 5.
Vienna Boys Choir New Year's Concert
Jan. 12
Famous for their angelic sound, Vienna Boys Choir will visit Korea yet again. Together with songs like ``Ave Maria'' and light tunes like ``On a wonderful day,'' the choir will sing world folksongs including ``Arirang.'' Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 100,000 won. Visit ticket.interpark.com or 1577-5266. Located near exit 8 of Gwanghwamun Station on subway line 5.
Kim Yong-bae's 11 O'clock Concert
Through April 10
Pianist Kim Yong-bae, together 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.
Big Tickets
Sumi Jo & Winners
Through Jan. 3
World-renowned collatura soprano Sumi Jo will tour the nation with the Mostly Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Francesco Maria Colombo. She will appear in Seoul Jan. 3. Tickets range from 70,000 won to 150,000 won. Visit ticket.interpark.com or call 1588-7890. Located near exit 8 of Gwanghwamun Station on subway line 5.
Museums
Blue Dragon, Guardian Deity of East
National Museum of Korea
Through Jan. 6
Cheongnyong (blue dragon) is the guardian deity of the underworld. The detail and brilliant colors of cheongnyong express energy and liveliness, and displays the sophisticated artistry of Goguryeo painters. Located at Ichon Station on subway line 4, exit 2.
Jingdezhen Qingbai Porcelain: Beauty of Pure White Blooming in Blue
Through April 13
The Asian Art Gallery showcases 75 items, including a Qingbai porcelain pillow recovered from the Sinan seabed. Qingbai porcelain, also known as shady blue porcelain, was one of the most favored types of pottery in China. Located at Ichon Station on subway line 4, exit 2.
Late Joseon Tea Culture
The Amore Museum
Through Feb. 28
The Amore Museum presents an exhibition about tea culture of the late Joseon Kingdom. This exhibition displays documents about the culture and tea utensils from that period. Admission is free. Visit museum.amorepacific.co.kr or call (031) 280-5595. Located in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province.
Art Plastic Jewelry
World Jewelry Museum
Through Dec. 30
This exhibition displays about 50 plastic art deco ornaments from 1870s to mid 20th century showing how plastic has been used to create jewelry. Visit www.wjmuseum.com or call (02) 730-1610. Located near exit 5 of Gyeongbokgung Station on subway line 3.
Dance
Song of Mermaid
Arts Arco Theater
Feb. 29-March. 1
Kim Sun-hee Ballet performs their own version of the classic ``The Little Mermaid.'' They have prepared a sea-like stage with colorful costumes and diverse characters that will give the all time favorite classic story a bit of a twist. Tickets cost from 20,000 won to 50,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call (02) 3216-1185. Located near exit 2 of Hyehwa Station on subway line 4.
Korea National Ballet's ``A Ballet With a Commentary''
Guro Arts Valley
Jan 12
For those who think ballet is difficult and boring, the Korea National Ballet has prepared the perfect performance. Renowned musical star Nam Kyoung-joo will help the audience understand the plots and dances of favorite ballet classics. Tickets range from 10,000 won to 20,000 won. Visit www.guroartsvalley.or.kr or call (02) 2029-1721. Located near exit 2 of Sindorim station on line 1.
Alice in Wonderland
Seoul Open Theater Changdong
Jan. 11-13
Seoul Ballet Theater presents a ballet version of ``Alice in Wonderland.'' Splendid costumes, various animal characters and gorgeous stage settings will grab the attention of people of all ages. Tickets range from 10,000 won to 15,000 won. Visit www.sotc.or.kr or call (02) 994-1469. Located near exit 1 of Changdong Station on subway lines 1 and 4.
B-Boy Korea
B-Boy Korea Theater
A perfect combination of dance, music and mime, this universal performance is for everyone. Tickets range from 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.
Ballerina Who Loved a B-Boy
Hongik University B-Boy Theater
Open Run
With a reenergized cast and storyline, this entertaining story of a ballerina who falls hopelessly in love with the world of hip-hop is now on stage near Hongik Univ. Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 50,000 won. Visit www.sjbboyz.com or call (02) 323-5233. Located near exit 5 of Hongik University Station on subway line 2.
Pop and Jazz
Woongsan's Valentine's Day Concert
Seongnam Arts Center
Feb.13-14
Jazz artist Woongsan will celebrate Valentine's Day by holding a special concert for lovers. The concert also includes special tickets that provide wine, dinner and other presents for couples that wish to celebrate the special day. Tickets range from 35,000 won to 65,000 won. Located near exit 1 of Imae station on the Bundang line.
FT Island's Concert: First Island
Seongnam Indoor Stadium
Pop hit FT Island will hold their first concert in Seongnam. The five-member group will play their hit songs and also other pop music for their fans. Tickets cost from 44,000 won to 55,000 won (Standing seats). Visit www.ticketlink.co,kr or call 1588-4567. Located near exit 2 of Moran Station on subway line 8.
Jun Jeduk's White Day Concert
March 13-15
Korea's first Jazz harmonica player, Jun Jeduk often is compared with Stevie Wonder. Jun will perform for couples in February with his unique sounds and musical techniques. The blind artist won the Best Jazz and Crossover Award at the Korean Music Awards in 2005. The concert also includes special tickets that provide wine, dinner and other presents for couples that wish to celebrate the special day. Tickets cost from 35,000 won from 65,000. Located near exit 1 of Imae station on the Bundang line.
Clazziquai Hello 2008
Jangchung Stadium
Start the New Year with stylish electronica band Clazziquai. The chic stage and riveting songs of Clazziquai will open up the New Year with excitement. Tickets cost from 55,000 won to 77,000 won. Visit ticket.interpark.com or call 1544-1555. Located near exit 5 of Dongguk University Station on subway line 3.
Coyote Ugly Con-Party
Gayageum Hall, Sheraton Walkerhill
The original Coyote Ugly team visits Korea yet again to fire up the night with hot performance on the bar. Tickets cost from 60,000 won (in advance) to 70,000 won (at the door). Visit ticket.interpark.com or call 1544-1555. Located near exit 2 of Gangbyeon Station on subway line 2 (shuttle available).
Jose Feliciano
Dec. 29-30
Blind singer and guitarist Jose Feliciano gives a concert in Korea. At this concert, he will sing his hit songs like ``Rain,'' ``Once There Was a Love'' and ``The Gypsy.'' Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 160,000 won. Visit www.vincero.co.kr or call (02) 599-5743. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3.
Park Jin-young Concert
Olympic Hall, Olympic Park
One of the top producers in Korea, Park Jin-young, is now back as a singer. His modern, sexy and stylish concert will satisfy all your senses. Tickets cost from 44,000 won to 99,000 won. Visit ticket.interpark.com or call 1544-1555. Located near exit 3 of Olympic Park Station on subway line 5.
2007 Jazz Summit
KT Art Hall
Through Dec. 31
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
Maria Maria
Delve into the life of Mary Magdalene, a prostitute who crosses paths with Jesus and finds new life through him. Tickets range from 50,000 won to 100,000 won. Visit www.themaria.co.kr or call 1544-5955. Located near exit 2 of Ichon Station on subway line 4.
Indang's Blues
Sadari Art Center
A homegrown musical based on two Korean folk tales, Chunhyangjeon and Simcheongjeon, returns to the stage. English subtitles are available on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Tickets cost from 20,000 to 30,000 won. Visit www.paim.co.kr or call (02) 762-9190. Located near exit 1 of Hyehwa Station on subway line 4.
Beautiful Game
LG Arts Center
Through Jan. 13
Another Andrew Lloyd Webber musical, ``The Beautiful Game'' is staged in Korea. This musical is about a group of teenagers growing up amid religious intolerance in Belfast, Northern Ireland in 1969. Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 100,000 won. Visit www.beautifulgame.co.kr or call (02) 501-7888. Located near exit 7 of Yeoksam Station on subway line 2.
Le passe-muraille
Dongsoong Art Center
Through Feb. 3
A very French musical tells the tale of a man who could walk through the walls of Montmartre and the people around him. Based on Marcel Ayme's novel and music by Michel Legrand. Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 65,000 won. Visit ticket.interpark.com or call 1544-1555. Located near exit 1 of Hyehwa Station on subway line 4.
Hairspray
Chungmu Art Hall
Through Feb. 17
A big hit from Broadway, the musical Hairspray is now on the Korean stage. Music from the 1960s heats up the stage with unique characters such as Tracy, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart. Tickets range from 40,000 won to 80,000 won. Visit ticket.interpark.com or call 1544-1555. Located near exit 9 of Sindang Station on subway lines 2 and 6.
Spelling Bee
Through March 9
The Spelling Bee contest has been turned into a heart-warming musical. The musical won the Tony Award for Best Book of a Musical in 2005. Ticket prices range from 30,000 won to 45,000 won. Visit ticket.interpark.com or call 1544-1555 Located near exit 9 of Sindang Station on subway lines 2 and 6.
Great Catsby Season 2
Daehangno Art Madang
``The Great Catsby'' is not ``The Great Gatsby.'' This is a Korean musical based on the web cartoon of the same name. It is a love story with original numbers written by Atmosphere. Tickets are priced at 40,000 won. Visit www.greatcatsby.com or call (02) 338-6685. Located near exit 2 of Hyehwa Station on subway line 4.