Concerts, Museums & Performances
Classical Concerts
2008 High 1 Cinema Concert
COEX Auditorium
May 16
Under the baton of conductor Kim Bong-mee, the High 1 Orchestra will perform famous soundtracks from various films, including ``The Sound of Music'' (1965), ``Legends of the Fall'' (1994) and the Korean film ``Radio Star'' (2006). Korean traditional singer Oh Jung-hae and baritone Kim Dong-kyu will join the orchestra. Tickets cost from 50,000 won to 100,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call (02) 749- 1300. Located near exit 5 and 6 of Samseong Station on subway line 2.
The Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra
Sejong Center for the Performing Arts
June 25
Celebrating its 90th anniversary this year, the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra will visit Seoul for the first time. Conducted by the young and passionate Yannick Nezet-Seguin of Canada, the orchestra will also perform with Chinese pianist Yundi Li. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 130,000 won. For more visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call 1588-7890. Located near exit 8 of Gwanghwamun Station on subway line 5.
The Philadelphia Orchestra
May 30-May 31
The Philadelphia Orchestra is visiting Seoul for the first time in 30 years. With German maestro Christoph Eschenbach, Korean-American violinist Juliette Kang and Korean violist Chang Choong-jin, it will offer the music of Beethoven, Bernstein and Mozart. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 200,000 won. For more visit www.ticket.interpark.com or call 1544-1555. Located near exit 8 of Gwanghwamun Station on subway line 5.
Tolzer Dnabenchor
LG Arts Center
May 9
The Tolzer Dnabenchor comes to Seoul for the first time. Tolzer Dnabenchor recently received the ``Diapason d'Or,'' one of the most prestigious awards for classical records, given by French magazine ``Diapason.'' The choir singers will present songs of Mozart, and Rossini and much more. Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 80,000 won. Visit www.ticket.interpark.com or call (02) 3463- 2466. Located near exit 7 of Yeoksam Station on subway line 2.
Andrea Rost and Lee Jeong-won
Goyang Aram Nuri Arts Complex
May 10
Hungarian soprano Andrea Rost will perform in Seoul with Korean tenor Lee Jeong-won. Under the baton of Italian conductor Ottavio Marino, the two celebrated singers will sing songs from operas ``Romeo and Juliet,'' ``Rigoletto,'' ``Aida'' and much more. Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 120,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call 1577-7766. Located near exit Aramnuri of Jeongbalsan station on subway line 3.
Cellist Song Young-hoon's Eternal Tango
Seongnam Arts Center
June 29
Young, talented cellist Song Young-hoon and Japanese Tango band ``Cuatrocientos'' will get together once again to offer classical fans the passion of the Tango. Along with ``Cuatrocientos,'' ballad singer Kim Dong-ryul will also join to uphold the Tango spirit. Tickets cost from 44,000 won to 77,000 won. Located near exit 1 of Imae station on the Bundang line.
St. Petersburg Symphony Orchestra
Seoul Arts Center
May 3
Russia's finest symphony orchestra is visiting Seoul to offer their grand classical tunes. Korean cellist Myung-wha Chung will join the Saint Petersburg Symphony Orchestra and display perfect harmony. A part of the proceeds will be donated to restore the coast of Taean, South Chungcheong Province from the oil spill last December. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 140,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call (02) 3471-6475. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3.
Bambini di Praga
May 1
One of the most famous choirs in Europe, the Bambini di Praga has prepared a special performance for Korean fans. The choir will not only offer their own classical music, but also famous tunes from all over the world. Tickets cost from 20,000 won to 80,000 won. Visit www.seoularts.co.kr or call 1588-7890. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3.
The Ten Tenors
May 24
Australian vocal ensemble ``The Ten Tenors,'' are visiting Korea for the first time. Their album ``Here's to the Heroes'' (2006) became a big hit in the United States and Australia, selling more than 2 million copies. The 10 singers will present songs familiar to Korean fans, including ``Bohemian Rhapsody'' and famous soundtracks from movies like ``Dances With Wolves.'' Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 150,000 won. Visit www.bravo.comm.co.kr or call (02) 3463-2466. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3.
Kim Chee-yun's Serenata Notturno
May 19-20
Violinist Kim Chee-yun will present songs from her new album ``Serenata Notturno.'' For those who want to spend a spring evening with romantic melodies, this should be an unforgettable experience. Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 70,000 won. Visit www.clubbalcony.com or call 1588-7890. Located near exit 7 of Yeoksam Station on subway line 2.
Korean World Star Series: Sumi Jo
May 23
Experience the charisma and beautiful melodies of international star soprano Sumi Jo. This is the second of the Korea World Star Series hosted by Seoul Arts Center. Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 120,000 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.
Handel Festival Orchestra
May 4
Take the chance to listen to the classical melodies from Handel Festival Orchestra. World-renowned soprano Shin Young-ok will perform with the orchestra on its first visit to Korea. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 120,000 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.
Big Tickets
Martha Argerich and Chung Myung-whun
May 7
With Korea's celebrated maestro Chung Myung-whun, world renowned Argentina-born pianist Martha Argerich will perform Prokofiev and Brukner's pieces for Korean fans. Join the two incredible artists and experience the true meaning of charisma. Tickets cost from 55,000 won to 220,000 won. Visit www.ticket.interpark.com or call 1544-1555. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal Station on subway line 3.
Rhythm and Romance Kenny G Live in Seoul
Olympic Hall, Olympic Park
April 29
One of Korea's favorite jazz saxophonists, Kenny G is back in Korea with his new album ``Rhythm and Romance.'' The new album contains melodies rooted in Latin music such as the tango and salsa. He will play songs from the album, and also perform his personal favorites. Tickets cost from 66,000 won to 198,000 won (includes Kenny G's new album ``Rhythm and Romance.'' Call (02) 563- 0595 or send an e-mail to info@privatecurve.com. Located near exit 3 of Olympic Park Station on subway line 5.
Paul Potts Live in Seoul
Grand Auditorium, Ewha Womans University
May 3-4
From a cell phone salesman to the winner of ``Britain's Got Talent,'' Paul Potts has proved there are no boundaries when it comes to the love and passion of music. Potts will visit Seoul for the first time and share his dreams and hope with fans. Tickets cost from 77,000 won to 132,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call (02) 722-6504. Located near exit 4 of Ewha University Station on subway 2.
Magic of Rick Thomas
Olympic Stadium, Olympic Park
May 2-12
Experience a Las Vegas Magic Show here at Seoul with Rick Thomas. Thomas was given the Best Illusionist of the Year from the World Magic Awards in 2007, the Theater Excellence Award in 2004 among many other awards in his magical career. This will be a great opportunity to see the magic for yourself with friends and family. Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 100,000 won. Visit www.rickthomas.co.kr or call (02) 1588-7890. Located near exit 3 of Olympic Park Station on subway line 5.
Museums
Glory of Persia
National Museum of Korea
Through Aug. 31
``Glory of Persia,'' underway at the National Museum of Korea offers visitors historical relics of the Persian civilization. It will showcase 204 items and also include performances, seminars and festivals. The exhibition will move onto the Daegu National Museum from Sept.29 to Dec. 21. Located at Ichon Station on subway line 4, exit 2.
Dead Sea Scrolls
Yongsan National Memorial Museum
Through June 4
The Dead Sea Scrolls and the Birth of Christianity exhibits five genuine and three copied dead sea scrolls and some 800 other relics. Located at Samgakji Station, exits 1 and 11.
Dance
Swan Lake
Aramnuri Theater
June 13-14
Experience the grace and beauty of ``Swan Lake'' performed by the Korea National Ballet. World-renowned choreographer Yuri Grigorovich will present his version of the piece, with more dramatic moves and scenes. Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 90, 000 won. Visit www.artgy.or.kr or call 1577-7766. Located near exit Aramnuri, Jeongbalsan Station.
2008 World Ballet Star Festival in Seoul
June 5-6
Renowned ballet dancers from all over the world, including France, the Netherlands and Russia, will gather in Seoul to participate in the ``2008 World Ballet Star Festival.'' A total of 14 dancers will offer the true beauty of classical and modern ballet. For ballet lovers, this will be a memorable performance. Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 200,000 won. Visit www.ticket/interpark.com or call (02) 751-9682.Located near exit 8 of Gwanghwamun Station on subway line 5.
Netherlands Dance Theater
May 17-18
British newspaper the Independent praised them as being ``characterized by the gorgeous fluency of young bodies in an ecstasy of motion.'' They are the Netherlands Dance Theater, who will visit Korea to perform their unique and graceful dance moves. Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 100,000 won. Visit www.snart.or.kr or call (031) 783-8000. Located near exit 1 of Imae station on the Bundang line.
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.
Break Out
Break Out Theater
Having drawn attention at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival last year, Break Out now shows B-boy performances along with comedy. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 50,000 won. Visit www.breakout.co.kr or call (02) 722-3995. Located near exit 15 of Jongno 3-ga Station on subway lines 1, 3 and 5.
Pop & Jazz
The Click Five Live in Seoul
Sangsang Madang Live Hall
May 27
American pop group The Click Five will visit Seoul for the second time, on the Asian leg of their world Asian tour. Selling about 350,000 copies of their first album ``Greetings from Imrie House'' in the United States, they will present songs from not only their first, but their second album ``Modern Minds and Pastimes'' of last year. All tickets cost 30,000 won. Visit www.ticket.interpark.com or call 1544-1555. Located near exit 5 of Hongik University Station on subway line 2.
European Jazz Trio Live in Seoul
June 20
The European Jazz Trio will visit Korea for the sixth time, and with their on-going passion toward jazz, fans will surely experience a memorable evening. Join Dutch drummer Roy Dackus, bassist Frans Van Hoeven and pianist Marc Van Roon in this impressive performance. Tickets cost from 20,000 won to 80,000 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.
The History Cho Yong-pil's Concert
Jamsil Sports Complex
One of Korea's most successful singers, Cho Yong-pil is holding a concert to celebrate his 40th anniversary. At the press conference of his concert, the singer said that without his fans, he would never have made it this far. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 150,000 won. Visit www.ticket.interpark.com or call (02) 541-7110. Located near exit 4 of Sports Complex Station on subway line 2.
L'Arc-en-Ciel
Gymnasium Stadium, Olympic Park
May 17
Top Japanese rock group L'Arc-en-Ciel will perform in Seoul as part of their international tour. The group, which literally means rainbow in French, is renowned for their unique interpretation of rock music. Tickets cost from 44,000 won to 99,000 won. Visit www.ticket.interpark.com or call 1544-1555. Located near exit 3 of Olympic Park Station on subway line 5.
Sum 41 Live in Seoul
Melon Ax Hall
Canadian punk rock group Sum 41 will visit Korea for the first time. The group is famous for their unique mixture of punk, heavy metal and hip-hop to rock. On this leg of their tour they will promote their new album ``Underclass Hero.'' All tickets cost 88,000 won. Visit www.allaccess.co.kr or call (02) 3141-3488. Located near exit 2 of Gwangnaru Station on subway 5.
Sung Si-kyung Story Concert
Gyeonggi Arts Center
May 24-25
One of the most popular male ballad singers in Korea, Sung Si-kyung will hold a concert for his fans before he leaves to serve in the military. Tickets cost from 55,000 won to 88,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call 1588-6789. Located near exit 4 of Suwon Station on subway line 1.
Sonny Rollins
May 23-25
Meet Sonny Rollins, the celebrated American saxophonist at his concert this May. The 79-year-old Jazz musician has released 65 albums and has been the inspiration for many artists for the past years. Tickets cost from 50,000 won to 130,000 won. Visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call (02) 2005-0114. Located near exit 7 of Yeoksam Station on subway line 2.
Claude Bolling Ensemble
Join celebrated jazz pianist Claude Bolling and experience real live jazz. Bolling and his ``Big Band'' will perform offerings from ``Suite for Flute, Suite for Cello'' and various big band jazz standards. Tickets cost from 10,000 won to 70,000 won. Visit www.artgy.or.kr or call 1577-7766. Located near exit Aramnuri, Jeongbalsan Station.
Kim Dong-ryul's Monologue concert
May 25
Ballad singer Kim Dong-ryul is holding a concert to thank his fans for waiting for him and his new album ``Thanks'' for four years. Tickets cost from 66,000 won to 110,000 won. Visit www.mooboong.com or call 1588-7890. Located near exit 1 of Imae station on the Bundang line.
Play & Musicals
Franz Kafka's Metamorphosis
May16-18
Kafka's famous novel, `` Metamorphosis'' is now on stage and will be presented by Iceland's ``Vesturport Theatre.'' Join Gregor Samsa, who has turned into a bug, and look into the reality and meaning of man himself. Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 60,000 won. Visit www.lgart.com or call (02) 2005-0114. Located near exit 7 of Yeoksam Station on subway line 2.
The Life
KEPCO Art Center
May 2-June 15
This musical depicts life on Broadway's 42nd street in the 1980s. Tickets cost from 20,000 won to 95,000 won. Visit www.musicalthelife.com or call (02) 501-7888. Located near exit 1 of Yangjae Station on subway line 3.
Five Course Love
Chungmu Art Hall
Through April 27
Three actors play fifteen characters at five restaurants in one night. Tickets range from 30,000 won to 40,000 won. Visit ticket.interpark.com or call 1544-1555. Located near exit 9 of Sindang Station on subway lines 2 and 6.
Mamma Mia!
Charlotte Theater
Through May
Musical ``Mamma Mia!,'' based on hit songs of ABBA, such as ``Dancing Queen'' and ``I Have A Dream,'' is currently in Korean production. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 120,000 won. Visit www.mamma-mia.co.kr or call (02) 577-1987. Located near exit 3 of Jamsil Station on subway lines 2 and 8.
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels
Doosan Art Center
Through May 12
Based on the namesake 1988 film, a hit from Broadway is now revived as a Korean production. With music and lyrics by David Yazbek from a book by Jeffrey Lane. Tickets cost 40,000 won to 60,000 won. Visit ticket.interpark.com or call 1544-1555. Located near exit 1 of Jongno 5-ga Station on subway line 1.
Evil Dead
Through June 15
A farcical, horror musical, ``Evil Dead, the Musical'' portrays college students who unintentionally releases evil spirits in the woods. Specially designed splatter zone seats are available for those who want to be showered with ``blood'' from the zombies. Tickets range from 30,000 won to 50,000 won. Visit www.showfac.com/evildead or call (02) 2051-3307. Located near exit 9 of Sindang Station on subway lines 2 and 6.
Grease
Dongsoong Art Center
Return to Rydell High School in 1950s to see Danny and Sandy's love story with rock and roll music. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 60,000 won. Visit ticket.interpark.com or call 1544-1555. Located near exit 1 of Hyehwa Station on subway line 4.
Finding Kim Jong-wook
Daehangno Art Madang
A woman looking for her first love, Kim Jong-wook, hires a man to find him for her. Watch to see how the story between them unravels. Tickets are 40,000 won. Visit ticket.interpark.com or call 1544-1555. Located near exit 2 of Hyehwa Station on subway line 4.