San Diego Korean Pungmul Ensemble
Expressions of Joy: Festival Music and Dance of Korea
Join us for an exciting evening of dance and music inspired by the percussion-centered pungmul traditions of the Korean peninsula. Pungmul (풍물) is a colorful and dynamic Korean tradition of folk performance that features drumming but also includes lively dancing and singing.
Rooted in village culture, pungmul was originally performed as part of farm work, at harvest festivals, and to accompany shamanistic rituals or mask dances. Villagers would come together to play and dance to the rhythms, expressing solidarity and relieving the hardships of their daily lives. Also known as nongak (farmer’s music), pungmul was recognized as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Korea in 1966.
Since the mid-twentieth century, new styles of pungmul have been created, bringing the outdoor tradition to contemporary urban audiences in concert halls. Musicians are now experimenting by fusing the traditional music and dance with different genres, such as rock, jazz, or classical music.
Tickets
General Seating: $20
VIP Seating: $40
Mingei Members receive a 10% discount.
The ticket price includes admission to the performance and access to Mingei International Museum’s Gallery Level ($14 value) after 4 PM on the day of the performance. The Commons Level is free for all.
Please purchase your tickets early. These performances sell out well in advance.
Proceeds support hands-on world music and dance programming for San Diego students in schools underserved by the arts.
About San Diego Korean Pungmul Institute
San Diego Korean Pungmul Institute (SDKPI) is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Korean traditional performing arts while supporting personal and community development. SDKPI master artists and students regularly perform at notable venues including the Hollywood Bowl Parade, the Moon Festival at Balboa Park, the San Diego County Fair, and the SeaWorld Lunar New Year observances.
Read more about The San Diego Korean Pungmul Institute. Watch a video of a contemporary pungmul performance.
Health and Safety
Proof of vaccination is required to attend these performances. Please bring a picture of your vaccine card or the card itself. Masks are required indoors for all guests (ages 2+) regardless of vaccination status.
Co-Sponsors 
Major Grant Sponsor
Financial support was provided by the City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture.
