New York Philharmonic receives invitation to perform in North Korea

According to Westphal(August 14, 2007) in his article on Playbill Arts, the New York Philharmonic has been invited by the government of North Korea to give a concert in the capital city, Pyongyang. Although the New York Philharmonic has played all over the world, the orchestra has never given a concert in North Korea. The orchestra is considering positively about this invitation like any other suggestions. For performing in North Korea, the orchestra is required to consult with U.S. federal government. However it depends on the orchestra whether or not they consent to give a concert.

In recent years, North Korea had an antagonistic relationship with the USA. Gradually, North Korea needs a relation improvement with US to escape isolation from international society. Therefore it seems to be that North Korea chooses music as a means of solution. Is well known, North Korean leader Kim Jong Il is interested in art (He even studied movie making). For a long time, music has been used to be a means of reconciliation and peace by politics (Of course, there are also opposite sides). I expect that this invitation will enable both countries to improve the relationship and will bring peace to East Asia.

By Yehun