Jung Da-hyun is a reporter at The Korea Times, covering social issues in Korea, including foreign residents, education, environment and politics. Driven by a deep interest in people’s stories, she focuses on investigative and feature reporting through direct interviews and field coverage. She received the Amnesty International Korea Media Award for her “Deepfake Crisis at Schools” series. Reach her at dahyun08@koreatimes.co.kr. Always open to hearing your stories.
Seoul to host concert to celebrate Liberation Day
A poster of "8.15 Seoul, My Soul" music festival / Courtesy of Seoul Metropolitan Government
By Jung Da-hyun
By Jung Da-hyun
On the occasion of the 78th anniversary of National Liberation Day, Seoul City and Sejong Center will host a music concert titled “8.15 Seoul, My Soul” at Gwanghwamun Square, Tuesday.
Under the theme of Korean music, the concert aims to foster the joy of liberation with citizens. It is offering various cultural attractions for international visitors exploring Seoul, including Jamboree Scouts who have extended their sojourn in Korea.
The stage will resonate with the collaboration of traditional and modern musical genres, ranging from Korean traditional folk songs to pansori and the intriguing blend of gugak ― Korean traditional music ― with contemporary melodies.
Renowned “Joseon pop” band Leenalchi, lauded for their combination of pansori with modern pop music, will perform. Audience members will be treated to a captivating rendition of the sensational 2021 hit "Tiger is Coming," brought to life by Leenalchi and the Ambiguous Dance Company.
Anticipating an attendance of around 5,000 individuals, the main concert hall is operated with all standing seats as the audience and cast represent a “mess,” to evoke a spontaneous atmosphere and unrestrained enjoyment. To ensure safety, admittance is restricted to individuals aged 7 and above.
A separate picnic zone will be set up for those accompanied by children under the age of 7. Here, people can enjoy the performance, seated comfortably on their personal mats and camping chairs.
Aside from Leenalchi, nine other music acts are also set to grace the stage for the two-hour show. Admission to the concert is free. Pre-applications have been open since Sunday, but those who have not applied in advance can also enter on a first-come, first-served basis.
"Since Liberation Day is a meaningful and enjoyable day, the event was planned with the aim of celebrating the day together and enjoying the joy,” a Seoul City official said.