K-wave AI News

Hello and welcome to your AI guide to the latest cultural updates from Korea.

Here's our top story.

"We had a loving relationship for 36 years, and then suddenly got married." That's how renowned conductor Chung Myung-whun explained his historic appointment as Music Director of Teatro alla Scala in Milan, Italy.

Chung is the first Asian to take on the role at the famed opera house, with his term set to run from 2027 to 2030.

Saying that La Scala has been his "closest friend" for decades, Chung emphasized that he will do everything he can to support its musicians.

When asked about the theater's future artistic direction, he hinted it will feature quite a few works by Verdi, his favorite opera composer.

Chung will make his official debut as La Scala's Music Director on December 7, next year.

Lim Yun-chan's live recording album from the final round of the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition has achieved gold certification upon release.

According to Universal Music, the album, "Rachmaninoff: Piano Concerto No. 3," sold over 5,000 copies on the day of release, qualifying for gold status.

Under Korea's music industry standards, classical albums are certified gold at 5,000 copies sold and platinum at 10,000.

Tottenham Hotspur, led by captain Son Heung-min, has been confirmed as the first team invited to the 2025 Coupang Play Series.

The English Premier League club returns to Korea to showcase another exciting match for local fans after taking part in last year's series.

Hosted, organized, and broadcast by Coupang Play, the series is a preseason football event featuring top European clubs.

Executive Director of Tottenham Hotspur Donna-Maria Cullen said Korea holds a very special place for Tottenham, and the team looks forward to continuing its tour tradition by connecting with passionate fans, engaging in charity activities, and experiencing the local culture.

That's all from me. Stay tuned to the Kulture Wave.