2025 Global Talent Shine at the ISANGYUN Competition in Tongyeong
The ISANGYUN Competition is an international classical music event honoring the legacy of Korean composer Isang Yun. It promotes cultural exchange, supports emerging artists, and builds cooperation through the arts. The contest is held each November in Tongyeong, South Korea, and rotates among cello, piano, and violin.
The 2025 edition, dedicated to the cello, took place from Nov. 1 to 9 at Tongyeong Concert Hall. Open to cellists of all nationalities who met the age criteria, the event offered round-trip airfare and lodging for participants invited to the First Round. Applications closed July 31, with acceptance notices sent Aug. 29. Contestants registered and drew lots on Nov. 1, followed by the First Round on Nov. 2 and 3, the Second Round on Nov. 5 and 6, and the Final Round on Nov. 8 with the Tongyeong Festival Orchestra conducted by Leo? Svarovsky. The Winners’ Concert closed the event on Nov. 9.
Finalists showcased their artistry through major works, including concertos by Dvo?ak and Shostakovich, demonstrating both expressive range and technical mastery. The First Prize was awarded 30 million won from a total prize pool of 79 million won. Additional special distinctions included the Seong-Yawng Park Special Prize and the UNESCO City of Music Special Prize. Winners also earned future engagements at major Korean festivals and with regional orchestras.
Chaired by esteemed cellist Arto Noras, the 2025 jury featured internationally recognized performers and educators who upheld a rigorous and transparent judging process focused on interpretation, precision, and consistency.
By bringing together gifted young musicians from around the world, the ISANGYUN Competition once again embodied Isang Yun’s enduring vision of dialogue, creativity, and harmony through music.
Sean Jung R&D Division Director teen/1763604983/1613367716
1. What cultural, educational, and artistic goals does the competition aim to promote within the international classical music community?
2. When is the event traditionally held each year in Tongyeong, and why is November significant for the competition’s schedule?
3. What future performance opportunities, festival invitations, or orchestral engagements were granted to the winners beyond the monetary awards?
4. When exactly did the 2025 competition take place, from the opening events to the Winners’ Concert?
1. What part of the ISANGYUN Competition’s history or purpose do you find most meaningful, and why?
2. What qualities in a performer do you personally consider most important when listening to a classical competition?
3. When you read about the competition’s schedule, what moments do you think would be the most exciting to attend?
4. Who in the competition?whether a finalist, a juror, or the conductor?stands out to you, and what makes them interesting?
The ISANGYUN Competition is an international classical music event honoring the legacy of Korean composer Isang Yun. It promotes cultural exchange, supports emerging artists, and builds cooperation through the arts. The contest is held each November in Tongyeong, South Korea, and rotates among cello, piano, and violin.
