From April 5 to 8, 2026, three youth Japanese traditional musicians were dispatched to the Republic of Korea, where they presented Korea-Japan Youth Concert 2026 in Seoul and Busan as part of ongoing efforts to deepen friendship and cultural exchange through music.
The participating Japanese artists were Asano Sho, a Tsugaru-shamisen performer who has collaborated with artists around the world; Honma Takashi, a 25-string koto performer active across stage, film, and broadcasting; and Hirata Riko, a taiko performer active internationally who is also dedicated to nurturing younger generations of musicians.
A concert held on April 5 at Kim Youngui Hall, Ewha Womans University, in Seoul attracted approximately 250 audience members. Joining from Korea were four accomplished musicians from Ewha Womans University: Park Hye-ohn (daegeum; bamboo flute), Yang Ah-min (geomungo; zither), Kang Se-yeon (percussion), and Jo Eun (pansori; narrative singing), who performed together with the Japanese artists.
The Busan concert followed on April 8 at the Busan National Gugak Center, where approximately 200 people attended. Korean performers included Heo Yu-jin (daegeum), Lee Jin-Hee (janggu; hourglass drum), Shin Jin-Won (pansori), Han Su-ji (haegeum; two-string fiddle), and Jeon Seong-ho (percussion). Several had previously participated in Korea-Japan Youth Concert 2025 in Japan, making the reunion performance especially memorable.
In both cities, young musicians from Korea and Japan alternated on stage, presenting the rich traditions of their respective musical cultures. Joint performances by the musicians of both countries included iconic Japanese works such as “Uodouji” and “Donpan-bushi,” each drawing enthusiastic applause from the audience. During the encore performance of “Arirang Variations,” audience members joined in singing together with the performers, creating a deeply moving atmosphere of unity throughout the venue.
Many attendees voiced their appreciation afterward, describing the performances as deeply inspiring and praising the opportunity for meaningful exchange through music.
Lee Jin-Hee, appearing for the second consecutive year, remarked that he was delighted the collaboration begun last year had led to another reunion. He added that the performers had grown closer and were able to elevate one another artistically through a renewed partnership.
Asano Sho commented that the musicians’ connection felt natural even after a year apart. He further observed that hearing different performers interpret the same music revealed how traditional music reflects the individuality and inner spirit of each artist.
In addition, a lecture concert by the Japanese musicians was held on April 6 at the Public Information and Cultural Center of the Embassy of Japan in Korea, attracting approximately 60 attendees. Introducing their instruments, the artists presented Japanese traditional music to the audience. Audience members expressed appreciation for the deeper understanding of Japanese culture and the expressive possibilities of its traditional instruments.
This program was made possible by the supporting members of the Min-On Concert Association and other contributors to our various outreach initiatives.
