Jazz Icon Yun Hee-jung Celebrates 30 Years of Captivating Audiences with Concert Series and Personal Studio

For three decades, the personal studio of Korean jazz singer Yun Hee-jung has been more than just a workspace; it's a trove of memories, each concert poster and newspaper clipping telling the story of the 70-year-old's melodious journey. Surrounded by musical instruments including a keyboard and microphones, Yun conjures up the tune of history from her seasoned home base.

A Life Entwined with Jazz

Yun found her rhythm within the jazz world at age 36, a mother of two and previously a gospel fan. Urged to try jazz, she connected with Lee Pan-Geun, a prominent figure in the South Korean jazz scene, and quickly became instrumental in bringing jazz to mainstream audiences.

Yun Hee-jung & Friends: A Musical Tradition

From 1997 to 2011, Yun hosted the beloved 'Yun Hee-jung & Friends' concert series, showcasing her talent alongside 250 celebrities who, under her guidance, learned to sing jazz. The program concluded 100 performances over 15 years. After a brief hiatus, Yun returned with 'Jazz Friends Party,' an annual event where she and her guests offer up a delightful ensemble of tunes.

Trot Meets Jazz

Yun is no stranger to innovation. She creatively reinterprets trot songs, a genre known as 'ppongjjak,' wrapping them in rich jazz melodies. An upcoming album will feature these jazz-infused trot pieces, including popular tracks like 'Hymn of Wish' and 'Whiskey on the Rock.'

A Star from an Audition Legacy

Before reality singing competitions became mainstream, Yun stood as an early icon, winning the 'National Singing Contest' in 1971 and embarking on a singing career that won over her initially hesitant family.

December Delights: Concerts and Connection

December marks the month of Yun's special series, a tradition dating back to 2000. Accompanied by her daughter, singer Kim Soo-yeon, known professionally as Somerz, Yun shares the stage with various friends and special guests, amongst them being actor Lee Pil-mo. This tradition embodies the Korean concept of 'jeong,' a unique bond of affection and warmth between people.

Sharing 'Jeong' Through Jazz

Yun believes jazz is not just about passion, but compassion. Her concerts and collaborations are her way of fostering 'jeong' and maintaining an intimate relationship with her audience. Her life's work in jazz is a testament to her own depth of 'jeong' with the music, with her fellow artists, and with her listeners.

jazz, music, concert