Korean Music: A Philosophical Journey

This module explores the rich and diverse world of Korean music, encompassing both contemporary K-pop and traditional Korean music (Gukak). Students gain an appreciation for the connections and continuity between these genres, recognizing how elements of traditional Korean music influence the contemporary K-pop sound.

This module explores the concept of the "Korean Matrix" and how this course defines cultural boundaries, shedding light on the factors that shape and define Korean culture. Students gain insights into the open-mindedness of Koreans towards embracing musical influences from various regions, including India, the Middle East, and China.

This module introduces students to how Koreans have historically embraced foreign musical influences through instruments like the Taepyeongso. It also introduces ancient indigenous Korean instruments like the Geomungo and Gayageum. The module explores the paradox of Korean culture's acceptance of foreign ideas while preserving rich traditions.

This module engages students with Korean emotions like Han and Heung through songs like Arirang and Ong-Heya. Students learn that Han and Heung are both complementing and contrasting emotions, reflecting a unique feature of Korean emotionality.

This module introduces Confucian ritual music and court music, providing insight into traditional ceremonial and royal musical practices of Korea. It explores various theories, notably Mencius's music theory, examining the relationship between music and morality and how music can influence ethical values and behaviors.

This module covers Jeonganbo – Korea's unique musical notation system. Students learn about the Koreanness in Korean music and the connection between folk music and the Korean language. It also introduces concepts such as Jangdan and explores how Daoist music theory might explain Korean musical innovation.

This module features a round table discussion with lecturers and student research assistants who helped develop the course. It covers topics ranging from Korean emotions, different models of history, to additional explanations about Jeonganbo. This conversation serves to both summarize and dig deeper into the contents of the course previously covered.