“Between Folk Songs and Pop, a Korean Traditional Music Crossover of Rich and Varied Shades” 

The opening stage of the Yeowoorak Festival is presented by artistic director Lee Han-Chul, a singer-songwriter who has demonstrated a wide musical spectrum in popular music for over 30 years! Having deeply immersed himself in traditional Korean music, he now unveils a diverse range of new crossover gugak works on Yeowoorak stage. Alongside previously performed works such as “Maehwa Taryeong,” “Sacheolga,” and “Iyahong Taryeong,” he will premiere brand-new compositions created for this festival. Songs inspired by folk music from various regions will be performed by the Lee Han-Chul Band together with traditional Korean instrumentalists. Special guest appearances by Lee Hee-moon, a globally renowned folk singer with a distinctive style, and Chae Soo-hyun, a leading vocalist of Gyeonggi folk songs, will further enrich the performance. At last, you will encounter gugak that feels approachable and inviting. Though it may seem unfamiliar at first, you’ll soon find yourself tapping along to Lee Han-Chul’s unique folk-inspired sound.