Seoyeon Cho 조서연 is a Gayageum's Korean musician who performed during the Milano Loves Seoul 2025 event (28 February - 2 March 2025, Milan, Italy). On 2 March 2025, I was able to attend artist Seoyeon Cho's musical performance with the traditional Korean instrument the Gayageum 가야금.
I wanted to interview her because music can be a bridge between different cultures, her experience in Italy and mine in listening to her music strengthened the bond and mutual appreciation between the two countries.
Attending this performance was a great opportunity to see a live artist and hear the unique sound of Gayageum. The artist's skill enchanted me, her music was very special and listening to it gave me a feeling of peace and well-being. Thank you for creating such beautiful and harmonious music with a musical instrument.
Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your passion for traditional music?
Hello, I am Seoyeon Cho, a Gayageum player. The gayageum is one of the most well-known traditional string instruments in Korea. I first started playing the gayageum when I was 13, and now I've been playing for almost 20 years. I continue my musical activities with pride in performing Korean traditional music for such a long time.
The instrument you play is the gayageum. Can you explain the history of this instrument and what attracted you to it?
The gayageum was first built by King Gashil of the Gaya Kingdom around the 6th Century. It's an instrument with a long history, and I believe it beautifully showcases the charm of Korean traditional music. As a Korean, I love that I can carry on our traditional heritage and introduce its beauty to people.
Would you recommend this instrument?
Many foreigners who love Korean culture seem to appreciate the gayageum among Korean traditional instruments. I have experience teaching traditional instruments to Thai people at the Bangkok Korean Cultural Center, and they really loved the sound of the gayageum. There are even one-day classes for tourists visiting Korea, so I recommend trying it out if you have the opportunity!
You participated in the Milan Loves Seoul event in Italy, many people were able to listen to your live music. Can you tell us about your experience during this event?
I was thrilled to perform the gayageum during a traditional costume masterclass, presented by the designer Kim Ho. I could feel the audience's energy as they were deeply immersed in the music. It was also fun to perform in the middle of the show at Milan Love Seoul. Recently, I performed at Seoul Fashion Week, and it was interesting to experience a completely different atmosphere compared to the fashion shows in Seoul.
What do you think about the use of traditional music in Kpop songs?
I think the unique sound of Korean traditional instruments is a great way to represent Korean identity in Kpop. It will also feel fresh to foreigners who want to learn about Korean culture.
Was it the first time you visited Italy? What did you like the most?
I first visited Italy when I was 13, but I don't remember much, so it feels like my first visit. What stands out to me was the busy people of Milan and those enjoying leisurely moments – two contrasting scenes. Among the bustling crowds, I felt the vibrant energy of a big city, and in the parks scattered throughout the city, I could also sense a relaxed atmosphere, which I found fascinating.
Is there a particular place in the world where you would like to perform? Can you tell us about your future plans and performances?
I'd be happy to perform anywhere that can introduce Korean traditional music. I'm interested in Asian music, so I'd like to perform with traditional instruments from other Asian countries outside of Korea. In 2025, I plan to collaborate with Thai traditional instruments.
I saw Seoyeon Cho during the Milano loves Seoul event (2 March 2025, Milano, Italy). Her music impressed me so much so I decided to ask her a few questions about her experience in Italy (by mail 6 - 26 March 2025).
Foreigners love Kpop a lot, but there are many very good Korean artists and musicians whose performances also give us an insight into traditional Korean music.
Info e photo credits:
Seoyeon Cho Instagram
Milano Loves Seoul Staff
Ludovica Diletta
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