Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra Concerts

Experience Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra

The Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra (SPO), founded in 1948, is South Korea’s leading symphony orchestra and a cornerstone of the nation’s classical music scene. Initially established as the Gyeongseong Symphony Orchestra, it played a vital role in post-war cultural recovery. Throughout its history, the SPO has cultivated a reputation for technical precision and passionate performances.

Myung-Whun Chung served as its Artistic Director from 2005-2014, significantly raising its international profile through extensive touring and critically acclaimed recordings with Deutsche Grammophon. Current Music Director, Osmo Vänskä (appointed 2017), continues this trajectory, focusing on expanding repertoire and fostering artistic innovation.

The SPO regularly performs at Seoul Arts Center Concert Hall and actively commissions new works by Korean composers. Notable achievements include becoming the first Korean orchestra invited to perform at the BBC Proms in 2016 and consistent ranking amongst Asia's top orchestras. They are known for a broad repertoire spanning Baroque to contemporary works, with particular strength in Romantic and 20th-century pieces.