We are in the festivity mood of the autumn season in South Korea where citizens, foreign residents as well as visitors are taking part and enjoying various performances, events, and fiestas across the country. On the eve of 05 October 2023, an amazing Korean traditional music concert was performed by the Seshyang Gugak Orchestra, organized in collaboration between the National Gugak Center and Global Business Alliance (GBA Korea) at National Gugak Center Hall in Seoul.
According to the Global Business Alliance (GBA Korea) news brief about the concert, “the harmonies of Korean and Western musical instruments that resonated in the packed auditorium with a total of 600 visitors, both Koreans and foreigners from over 60 countries, mesmerized everyone for two hours. We would like to thank everyone who attended the concert that GBA organized with the Seshyang Gugak Orchestra.” GBA added that it was a performance where global Korea was realized, with people enjoying each other’s company regardless of nationality.
GBA is a unique non-profit business organization established under the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy. GBA provides a platform for Korean and foreign entrepreneurs along with diplomats and trade counselors, startups, and startup traders from over 64 countries.
During the concert, the congratulatory messages were delivered by organizers and hosts, Chairman Park Soo Woong, Sehyang Orchestra Foundation, Director General Kim Young Woon, the National Gugak Center, Chairman OH Sinan OZTURK, Global Business Alliance (GBA Korea) and H.E Dr. Chafik RACHADI, Ambassador of his Majesty the King of Morocco to the Republic of Korea.
Here are some of the excerpted messages.
“Sehyang Orchestra Foundation was established with the meaning of “making the world fragrant through living, breathing, moving music” in a feast of our traditional Gugak music. We hope that the subtle fragrance of our ancestors, who have walked their given paths, will go beyond ten thousand lives to spread the fragrance of Sehyang and forge deep connections through Sehyang’s music.” — Chairman Park Soo Woong, Sehyang Orchestra Foundation
“This occasion is even more meaningful as an opportunity to promote globally our traditional music (Gugak), which has recently garnered significant attention from the Korean public through various media channels. Gugak represents traditional Korean music and encompasses various music forms used in royal ceremonies during the Joseon Dynasty. Koreans have long considered Gugak’s aesthetic expressions as an important means of nurturing morality and ethics. The National Gugak Center strives to promote the beauty of this traditional music to all Koreans and to preserve and impart it to future generations. “ –Director General Kim Young Woon, the National Gugak Center
“In this beautiful season, I am delighted to invite the GBA family to enjoy the wonderful performance of the Sehyang Gugak Orchestra. GBA Korea is the only business association in Korea that brings together foreigners and Koreans from more than 60 countries with diverse businesses to share innovative ideas and work together for business and national economic growth. With the slogan “Global Korea”, Sehyang and GBA will hold this concert together with the aim of bringing Korea to the world and the world to Korea. I believe that the orchestra is the process of learning cooperation through the beautiful harmony of the Sehyang Gugak Orchestra. I hope it will resonate peacefully in your hearts.” — Chairman OH Sinan OZTURK, Global Business Alliance (GBA Korea)
“Both Morocco and Korea share a profound commitment to nurturing and preserving their cultural legacies, recognizing the pivotal role that art and music heritage play in fostering international understanding and unity. The Republic of Korea has long been known for its rich cultural tapestry, which holds an inseparable place in the hearts of its people. Music, in particular, serves as a bridge that transcends linguistic and geographic barriers, fostering connections between nations and kindling the flames of friendship. The melodies and rhythms that emanate from the instruments of the Sehyang Traditional Music Orchestra echo the stories of generations, embodying the essence of Korean culture. It is through such vibrant expressions of art that the Republic of Korea strengthens its ties with the world, forging bonds that are as enduring as they are enriching.” — H.E Dr. Chafik RACHADI, Ambassador of His Majesty the King of Morocco to the Republic of Korea
The National Gugak Center is an organization intended to promote and develop traditional Korean dance and music. The center has several performance venues and also runs educational programs. Among their lauded educational programs, their gugak class for foreign nationals is especially popular.
Here are some photos of the concert. All photo credits: GBA Korea
