By Lee Hyo-won
Staff Reporter
Rising star pianist Kim Sun-wook will receive a memorable graduation present ― a special honor from the minister of Culture and Tourism.
At his graduation ceremony today at the Korea National University of Arts in Seoul, the 19-year-old will not only receive his Bachelor of Fine Arts but also be recognized for contributing to the development of the arts and culture scene.
Kim started playing the piano at the age of three and skipped high school to enter university in 2004. He studied under the distinguished pianist/professor Kim Dae-jin and won major international piano competitions including the 2006 Leeds event ― as Asia's first and the world's youngest winner.
The pianist is often hailed as a triumphant example of pure homegrown talent, as he was never torn away at a young age to be trained in a foreign institution.
He made a critically acclaimed European debut last year, and is currently signing a contract with Arkonsa Holt, a prestigious arts management company. Beginning in March, Kim will be the youngest among represented artist like conductors Simon Rattle and Chung Myung-whun.
Kim is giving a concert tonight and Saturday at the Seoul Arts Center, where he will appear as soloist with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra next month. Call (02) 580-1300.