Conductor Takes the Helm, Beginning Two-Year Term on July 1

Courtesy of Busan Metropolitan Government

The Busan city government announced last week that Conductor Hong Seok-won is set to become the next artistic director of the Busan Philharmonic Orchestra. Currently serving as the artistic director of the Gwangju Symphony Orchestra, Hong will commence his two-year term starting July 1. He succeeds Choi Soo-yeol, who concluded a six-year term in December. 

▲ Courtesy of Busan Metropolitan GovernmentHong has a history with the Busan music scene, having previously served as a guest conductor for the Busan City Symphony Orchestra in 2020 and 2023. A graduate of Seoul National University and the Berlin National University of Music conducting department, Hong achieved third place at the Karajan 100th Anniversary Conducting Competition in 2008. He also holds the distinction of being the first Korean appointed as the principal conductor of the Opera Theater in Austria.

Known for his versatility across various musical genres, including orchestral music, opera, ballet, symphony, and contemporary music, Hong, aged 41, is recognized as a leader among the next generation of conductors in South Korea. His achievements include the release of his debut album in 2022, titled "Beethoven, Isang Yun, Barber," a live recording with pianist Lim Yun-chan and the Gwangju Symphony Orchestra, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label. Hong Seok-won's appointment signifies an exciting chapter for the Busan Philharmonic Orchestra as it looks ahead to a new era under his artistic direction.

Sayart 

Blue YIM, yimyoungseo1010@naver.com