Singers perform the national anthem of the 1897-1910 Korean Empire at the Appenzeller Noble Memorial Museum, June 30. Courtesy of the museum

The Jeongdong area of Seoul experienced an influx of new Western culture and values during the late Joseon era, from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with the establishment of diplomatic missions, Western-structured schools and churches in the vicinity of Deoksugung Palace, the residence for King Gojong.

As a result, the region became a mecca for Korea’s rising modern culture, including music, which actively embraced and reinterpreted Western melodies through traditional Korean styles and lyrics. But after Japanese colonization, many of the songs were forgotten or lost.

Gems from this fascinating period of Korea’s history have been dusted off and are being showcased.

The Appenzeller Noble Memorial Museum in Jeongdong has launched a project “Jeongdong Seen through Music” that restores and brings back the musical scores and melodies played and sung nearly 120 years ago. A total of four events – consisting of performances, followed by tours to sites where the music was played – will take place from June to September.

The event will be divided into three themes: national anthems, religion and school. The June 30 event kicked off with a performance of the national anthem of the 1897-1910 Korean Empire as well as those of the U.S., U.K., Russia, France and Germany played at their respective diplomatic missions.

The theme of the July 28 performance is religion. “Amazing Grace” and other Christian hymns will ring out from Chung Dong First Methodist Church, the Salvation Army Central Hall and Seoul Anglican Cathedral of St. Mary & St. Nicholas.

The last event on September 29 will be made up of songs with Western melodies and Korean lyrics performed by former students of Pai Chai Hakdang School and Ewha Hakdang School, both established by American missionaries.

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