Sejong University recently held the 2026 Sejong International Music Festival (SIMF), according to The Korea Times. The festival aimed to showcase achievements in arts and cultural education and foster future musical talent, the university said.
The Korea Times reported that the university hosted the SIMF from June 9 to July 1 at its campus and the Naru Arts Center in northeastern Seoul. The festival is a classical music event designed to combine performances, education, international exchange, and talent development.
The Korea Times stated that this year’s festival included piano recitals, a special concert, a piano masterclass, and audition concerts. Participants received guidance from performers and educators from Korea and abroad, enhancing their skills and providing opportunities to perform.
The Korea Times noted that a highlight of the festival was the SIMF Special Concert on June 30 at the Naru Arts Center. Acclaimed faculty artists from Korea and abroad presented solo and ensemble performances, offering students a chance to experience world-class musicians, according to the university.
The Korea Times reported that Nikolai Saratovsky, a professor at the National Taipei University of Education, led the SIMF Piano Masterclass on July 1. Participants refined their skills through instruction from Saratovsky, broadening their international perspective on music.
Kim Na-young, the festival’s chairperson and artistic director, said the event provided opportunities for growth and challenge, The Korea Times reported. Kim, who is also dean of the Center for Future Education, added that the festival enabled young musicians to broaden their artistic horizons and recognize their potential, according to The Korea Times.
The Korea Times stated that the Sejong Cultural Academy and the university’s department of music participated as partners, and the festival was supported by the Gwangjin Cultural Foundation and the University Innovation Support Project.
For more information, visit koreatimes.co.kr.