THE NATIONAL CHORUS OF KOREA

 

 

Founded in 1973, the National Chorus of Korea has led the advancement of choral music in Korea, upholding the
highest standards of professionalism and artistic excellence. In March 2000, the ensemble became an independent
incorporated foundation under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, marking a new chapter in its legal and
artistic journey. Since then, it has continued to thrive-presenting four regular subscription concerts annually, along
with over 60 planned performances, regional and international tours, guest appearances, and public events. The
National Chorus of Korea commands a broad and dynamic repertoire, ranging from medieval to contemporary works.
Its performances span a wide variety of genres, including Korean art songs, folk music, film scores, and musicals-often in
collaboration with orchestras-pioneering new possibilities in choral expression. Notably, the ensemble is dedicated to
preserving and promoting traditional Korean vocal techniques and interpretations, as well as developing and disseminating
original Korean choral compositions-playing a pivotal role in advancing the artistic depth of Korean choral music and
broadening its public reach. Through initiatives such as largescalecommissioned cantatas and public competitions for
original short works, the Chorus continues to foster creativity and present new visions for the future of Korean choral
music.

 

In January 2024, Maestro In-Gi Min was appointed as the 12th President and Artistic Director. Under his leadership,
the ensemble continues to pursue its musical mission and artistic vision, and has been recognized for its exceptional
performance caliber, comparable to the world’s leading choral ensembles, with a strong presence on global stages,
particularly in Europe.

 

Having served as a cornerstone in the development of Korean choral music for over fifty years, the National Chorus
of Korea remains steadfast in its mission as a choir for the people—poised to make a bold leap forward into the next
fifty years.

 

0
May

– Establishment of the NCK 

(part of National Theater of Korea)

0
December

– Establishment of the NCK as a foundation

0
February

– Independent operation as a foundation
relocating to Seoul Arts Center

0
June

– Designation as a public service corporation

0
March

– Opening of the NCK Studio in the
National Performing Arts Studio Complex

0
January

– Inauguration of 12th artistic director
In-Gi Min

 

Performances

The Essence of Choral Art Pursued by the National Chorus of Korea

Through a wide spectrum of performances—including subscription concerts that embody the artistic depth and professionalism of choral music, specially curated programs to promote and popularize the genre, regional concerts that enrich local cultural life and broaden public access to the arts, international tours aimed at globalizing Korean choral music, and guest appearances in collaboration with leading rts organizations—the National Chorus of Korea actively reaches audiences across diverse platforms.
Grounded in a rich and evolving repertoire and supported by bold artistic experimentation, the ensemble has consistently demonstrated performance capabilities of the highest standard. It has earned recognition as one of the world’s leading choral ensembles, while also establishing a unique artistic identity that drives the advancement of Korean choral and vocal music.

Composition & Content Development

Choral Works Embodying the Korean Language and Sentiment

The National Chorus of Korea has played a central role in introducing major Western choral works to Korean audiences and in commissioning original compositions to build a diverse repertoire. These efforts have been instrumental in establishing choral music as a vital performing art form in Korea. In particular, the Chorus has fostered meaningful connections with the public through choral works rooted in the Korean language and emotional sensibilities, contributing to the global recognition of Korea’s unique choral identity. The development of signature Korean-language repertoire that reflects this identity remains a core focus of the ensemble’s creative mission.

Artist Development

Training Talented Artists to Lead the Future with Expertise and Passion

As Korea’s central institution for the training of professional choral artists, the National Chorus of Korea preserves the traditions of Korean choral music while preparing the next generation of musical leaders. In response to the growing number of choirs nationwide and the rising demand for expert choral conductors, the Chorus offers practical education and debut opportunities. In addition, it encourages emerging composers through the active performance of newly commissioned works. Alumni of the Chorus continue to play prominent roles across the field, performing as principal opera singers or teaching as professors who nurture future talent in the broader vocal arts community

Expanding Public Access to Choral Music

Fostering a Choral Arts Movement Rooted in Everyday Life

Efforts to broaden the foundation of choral music extend beyond professional training to include expanding participation among amateur enthusiasts and encouraging public engagement with choral singing in everyday life. Choral competitions hosted by the National Chorus of Korea and supported by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism serve to enrich the emotional well-being of the public through choral music, while also promoting a vibrant choral arts movement that is inclusive, sustainable, and deeply rooted in the fabric of daily life.