Kwak hyang-ah
Daegeum & Sogeum Performer
Introduction
I am a performer of traditional Korean wind instruments, specifically the Daegeum (large bamboo flute) and Sogeum (small bamboo flute). My musical journey began with the Western flute as a child, but I naturally found myself drawn to traditional instruments upon discovering the Daegeum and Sogeum, which utilize a similar breathing technique. While they are wind instruments like their Western counterparts, I was captivated by their deep resonance and the "beauty of empty space"—qualities that are uniquely profound.
As a performer, I strive to naturally express my emotions and thoughts through music, conveying the inherent beauty and resonance of Korean traditional instruments. I look forward to creating even deeper musical experiences through consistent performance and growth.
Highlights 
B.A. in Korean Music, Pusan National University (Graduate School coursework completed)
Member of the Changwon Korean Traditional Light Orchestra
Member of the Literary Arts Subcommittee, Busan Korean Traditional Music Association
Performance at the Ferrara Buskers Festival, Italy
Performance at Tolfarte, Italy
Invited Performance for the Korean Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong
Performance at the World Peace Forum Peace Concert
Performer at the Busan Citizen's Bell Year-End Ringing Ceremony
My Philosophy 
Since the Daegeum and Sogeum create sound through the breath, I feel that my breathing and emotions are naturally infused into the music every time I play. Even with the same piece, the texture of the sound changes depending on my state of mind or the flow of my breath that day. I believe the true charm of these instruments lies in how they mirror the emotions of the moment.
Furthermore, I find great meaning in the invisible emotional connection shared with the audience. There are moments when the heart is understood through music without a single word being spoken; those moments bring me the greatest sense of fulfillment. For me, performing is more than just an act of playing an instrument—it is a vital time for self-expression and emotional connection.
Interview
Q. What is your most memorable experience or place within Korea’s nature?
Performing at the Geumjeongsanseong Fortress Square is my most vivid memory. I performed there about six times, all during the height of summer, so I remember the sweltering heat quite clearly. Because it was an outdoor venue, I had to play while feeling the direct sunlight and heat, but that gave it an atmosphere quite different from a standard concert hall. The square is surrounded by mountains, allowing me to feel nature intimately during the performance. I could feel the wind passing by and the movement of the air. Playing in that environment made the sensation of "performing within nature" much more powerful.
Q. What does "Nature" mean to you?
I believe nature is an existence that closely resembles the sound of the Daegeum. When listening to the Daegeum, you can hear the sensation of wind passing through or a resonance that sounds as if it’s echoing through the wilderness. This is why I feel the sound of the Daegeum harmonizes best when situated in nature. In my performances, I try to capture that natural resonance. In that sense, nature is a vital space that makes me reconsider the essence of my music.
Q. What is the charm that keeps you playing the Daegeum and Sogeum?
Although both are bamboo instruments, they possess distinct timbres and atmospheres, allowing for a wide range of expression. The Daegeum can express heavy, deep emotions through its wide and profound resonance, while the Sogeum creates a delicate atmosphere with its clear, crystalline sound. Depending on which instrument I choose, the same piece can feel entirely different. This versatility is what keeps me captivated.
Q. What do you hope people feel when they listen to your music?
I hope my music provides a moment of peace and relaxation for those who listen. I want it to be a time for people to pause their busy daily lives and look within themselves. I also hope they can naturally appreciate the beauty of our traditional instruments through the deep resonance and clear tones of the Daegeum and Sogeum. I believe music has the power to convey emotion without explanation, and I hope my performance reaches the audience as a small comfort or a warm embrace.
Inquire for Collaboration
Daegeum & Sogeum Performer
Introduction
I am a performer of traditional Korean wind instruments, specifically the Daegeum (large bamboo flute) and Sogeum (small bamboo flute). My musical journey began with the Western flute as a child, but I naturally found myself drawn to traditional instruments upon discovering the Daegeum and Sogeum, which utilize a similar breathing technique. While they are wind instruments like their Western counterparts, I was captivated by their deep resonance and the "beauty of empty space"—qualities that are uniquely profound.
As a performer, I strive to naturally express my emotions and thoughts through music, conveying the inherent beauty and resonance of Korean traditional instruments. I look forward to creating even deeper musical experiences through consistent performance and growth.
Highlights
B.A. in Korean Music, Pusan National University (Graduate School coursework completed)
Member of the Changwon Korean Traditional Light Orchestra
Member of the Literary Arts Subcommittee, Busan Korean Traditional Music Association
Performance at the Ferrara Buskers Festival, Italy
Performance at Tolfarte, Italy
Invited Performance for the Korean Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong
Performance at the World Peace Forum Peace Concert
Performer at the Busan Citizen's Bell Year-End Ringing Ceremony
My Philosophy
Since the Daegeum and Sogeum create sound through the breath, I feel that my breathing and emotions are naturally infused into the music every time I play. Even with the same piece, the texture of the sound changes depending on my state of mind or the flow of my breath that day. I believe the true charm of these instruments lies in how they mirror the emotions of the moment.
Furthermore, I find great meaning in the invisible emotional connection shared with the audience. There are moments when the heart is understood through music without a single word being spoken; those moments bring me the greatest sense of fulfillment. For me, performing is more than just an act of playing an instrument—it is a vital time for self-expression and emotional connection.
Interview
Q. What is your most memorable experience or place within Korea’s nature?
Performing at the Geumjeongsanseong Fortress Square is my most vivid memory. I performed there about six times, all during the height of summer, so I remember the sweltering heat quite clearly. Because it was an outdoor venue, I had to play while feeling the direct sunlight and heat, but that gave it an atmosphere quite different from a standard concert hall. The square is surrounded by mountains, allowing me to feel nature intimately during the performance. I could feel the wind passing by and the movement of the air. Playing in that environment made the sensation of "performing within nature" much more powerful.
Q. What does "Nature" mean to you?
I believe nature is an existence that closely resembles the sound of the Daegeum. When listening to the Daegeum, you can hear the sensation of wind passing through or a resonance that sounds as if it’s echoing through the wilderness. This is why I feel the sound of the Daegeum harmonizes best when situated in nature. In my performances, I try to capture that natural resonance. In that sense, nature is a vital space that makes me reconsider the essence of my music.
Q. What is the charm that keeps you playing the Daegeum and Sogeum?
Although both are bamboo instruments, they possess distinct timbres and atmospheres, allowing for a wide range of expression. The Daegeum can express heavy, deep emotions through its wide and profound resonance, while the Sogeum creates a delicate atmosphere with its clear, crystalline sound. Depending on which instrument I choose, the same piece can feel entirely different. This versatility is what keeps me captivated.
Q. What do you hope people feel when they listen to your music?
I hope my music provides a moment of peace and relaxation for those who listen. I want it to be a time for people to pause their busy daily lives and look within themselves. I also hope they can naturally appreciate the beauty of our traditional instruments through the deep resonance and clear tones of the Daegeum and Sogeum. I believe music has the power to convey emotion without explanation, and I hope my performance reaches the audience as a small comfort or a warm embrace.
Inquire for Collaboration