Traditional Performances Grace Year-End and New Year Celebrations

As the year winds down, artistic venues nationwide burst into life with traditional performances, embracing the year-end and New Year festivities. These concerts offer an eclectic mix of cultural experiences, drawing on centuries-old traditions to ring in the new year.

National Gugak Center Hosts 'Narye'

The National Gugak Center breathes new life into the ancient 'Narye' palace ritual, intended to dispel negative energies and usher in peace for the new year. This grand-scale performance is a modern take on traditional ceremonies dating back over 700 years, from the Goryeo to the Joseon eras. It brought together entertainers and court officials for a harmonious year-end celebration. The reimagined 'Narye' features a storyteller, deities, and includes over 120 members from the NGC's various musical and theatrical ensembles.

Pansori Master Ahn Sook-sun's Year-End Performances

Renowned pansori master Ahn Sook-sun graces the stage with her disciples at the National Theater of Korea. Together, they perform 'Simcheongga,' an epic pansori narrative. For more than a decade, Ahn has been a highlight of year-end performances at the NTOK, showcasing the depth and beauty of pansori. In addition to the pansori, the program includes sinawi, folk songs, and a mini changgeuk performance, featuring 30 members of the National Changgeuk Company of Korea.

New Year's Concert with National Orchestra of Korea and Crezl

The National Orchestra of Korea, under conductor Jung Chi-yong, merges traditional Korean music and modern sensibilities in a special New Year's concert. The performance will include 'Blue' and 'Spring Snow,' as well as a percussion concerto 'Waves: Dance of the Blue Haze.' They will share the stage with the male crossover vocal quartet Crezl for a blend of traditional sounds and contemporary hits.

Dynamic New Year Concert at Jeongdong Theater

The National Jeongdong Theater's 'Dragon Leaping Up' New Year concert promises an electrifying mix of performances. The array of talent includes a musical actor, a jeongga singer, and a respected vocalist. Attendees can expect to enjoy a diverse program ranging from musical theater to Korean folk music, all intensified by the inclusion of media arts.

concerts, culture, traditions