The Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines (KCC) successfully presented its third annual "Harmony Continues" concert on September 30, 2025, at the historic Centro de Turismo Intramuros. The event, organized in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Intramuros Administration, continued its tradition of bringing together Korean and Filipino artists to showcase their distinctive musical heritage while exploring artistic connections between the two cultures.
The concert series has evolved significantly since its inception, with each year highlighting different aspects of Korean-Filipino musical exchange. The inaugural 2023 edition featured a captivating dialogue between Korea's traditional pansori vocal art and Philippine percussion instruments. The 2024 performance expanded this cultural conversation by pairing Korean percussion with Filipino string instruments, creating unique musical fusions that resonated with audiences from both cultures.
This year's edition focused on the intersection of Korea's rich string instrument traditions and the Philippines' vocal artistry. The evening's headliners included the acclaimed Korean duo DAL:UM, renowned for their innovative approach to traditional Korean instruments. The pair has gained international recognition for their ability to transform the ancient sounds of the gayageum and geomungo into contemporary musical expressions that speak to modern audiences while preserving the essence of Korean traditional music.
Complementing DAL:UM's performance was Filipino soprano Stefanie Quintin-Avila, whose powerful stage presence and extensive repertoire brought new dimensions to both classical and folk compositions. Quintin-Avila's commanding vocal abilities created a perfect counterpoint to the Korean string instruments, resulting in a mesmerizing musical dialogue that bridged cultural boundaries through harmony and shared artistry.
The concert venue added another layer of cultural significance to the evening's performances. Set against the timeless architecture of Centro de Turismo Intramuros, the historic walls provided an atmospheric backdrop that enhanced the musical experience. The venue was elegantly illuminated by traditional Jinju Silk Lanterns, creating a warm and inviting ambiance that celebrated the aesthetic traditions of Korea while honoring the historical importance of the Philippine location.
The successful collaboration between the performers demonstrated how music serves as a universal language capable of transcending cultural differences. The evening showcased not only the individual talents of Korean and Filipino artists but also their ability to find common ground in their shared passion for musical excellence and cultural expression.
Looking ahead, concert organizers have announced plans for another highly anticipated musical event. Following the success of "Harmony Continues," audiences can expect the return of "OST Symphony II: K-drama in Concert," which will feature the renowned Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra. This upcoming concert represents the much-awaited comeback of last year's sold-out performance, highlighting the growing popularity of Korean cultural content in the Philippines.
The continued success of these cross-cultural musical initiatives reflects the deepening cultural ties between Korea and the Philippines. As organizers emphasized, "the music never stops—harmony continues," underscoring the ongoing commitment to fostering artistic exchange and cultural understanding between the two nations through the power of music.
