Song So-hee, a Korean traditional musician (Photo captured from Naver)

Recently, Korean traditional musician Song So-hee's new song "Not a Dream" has garnered significant attention for its modern reinterpretation of traditional Korean music (gugak). While acknowledging the importance of preserving the original structure and musical scales of gugak, Song emphasizes that tradition should not be a restrictive framework. Her approach breaks down the boundaries between tradition and modernity, opening new possibilities for gugak while also prompting discussions on the sustainability of intangible cultural heritage.

"Not a Dream" features a mysterious and captivating melody that harmonizes traditional instruments with modern electronic sounds, creating a fresh yet familiar auditory experience. Through this song, Song So-hee seeks not only to showcase the beauty of gugak on a global stage but also to make it more accessible to younger generations. Her musical experiment is not merely about preserving tradition but about weaving new narratives based on traditional foundations.

Song So-hee's latest song "Not a Dream": https://youtu.be/Zbo7UY8dxh8?si=_OlxGIRBmUHZ3EXB

Such innovative attempts raise crucial questions about the future direction of gugak as an element of intangible cultural heritage. Cultural heritage is not a static entity but an evolving tradition that thrives through communication with contemporary society. Can we strike a balance between preserving tradition and creating something new?

In fact, the history of gugak itself demonstrates a constant evolution. During the late Joseon Dynasty, pansori transformed within popular culture, adapting to social changes, while gayageum byeongchang (a form of singing accompanied by the gayageum) also developed in response to the needs of the times. Given this historical trajectory, it is natural for gugak to undergo transformations in the modern music landscape. "Not a Dream" exemplifies how tradition and modernity can coexist and complement each other.

Ultimately, tradition and innovation are not opposing forces but elements that enrich and advance one another. Song So-hee’s music does not seek to undermine tradition; rather, it reinterprets it through a modern lens, making gugak more accessible to wider audiences. Her artistic experiments could pave new paths for gugak, allowing it to evolve and remain relevant.

These efforts extend beyond an individual musician’s challenge—they create opportunities for Korean traditional music to shine on the global stage. Furthermore, they reaffirm that gugak, as part of intangible cultural heritage, can continuously develop and be redefined in response to changing times. Rather than being confined to mere preservation, gugak should be recognized as a living heritage that evolves toward the future. With this perspective, Song So-hee’s musical journey deserves keen attention and appreciation.

* This article is part of Culture Masters’ commitment to supporting intangible heritage artists and communities worldwide.

About Culture Masters

Culture Masters (culturemasters.org) is an international cultural enterprise dedicated to preserving and promoting Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH). Through Arirang Master Program, education, and certification programs, it supports traditional artists, fosters sustainable development, and enhances global cultural awareness.

Arirang Culture Connect- February 9, 2025