Course Description

Korean Music Studies is an interdisciplinary field that explores the diverse musical traditions of Korea, from its historical roots to contemporary developments. This field examines traditional Korean music** (*gugak*), including court music (*jeongak*), folk music (*minyo*), and the unique genres of pansori (a form of musical storytelling) and **samulnori** (percussive ensemble music). It also delves into **ritual music**, such as Buddhist chants and Confucian ceremonies, and how music reflects Korea’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

In modern contexts, the field investigates the **rise of Korean popular music (K-pop) and its global influence through the Korean Wave (*Hallyu*), analyzing not only its musical components but also its impact on identity, media, and cultural export. Scholars also study the role of **music in politics and social movements**, as well as how music reflects Korea’s social changes, including gender dynamics and globalization. Additionally, the field often incorporates **ethnomusicology**, performance studies, and media studies, giving a holistic understanding of Korean music’s evolution and significance both within Korea and internationally.

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