Choi Young-sup, composer of 'Longing for Geumgangsan,' dies at 97

Choi Young-sup, the celebrated composer behind the beloved South Korean folk song 'Longing for Geumgangsan' (Geumgangan), has died at the age of 97. Choi, who was also a conductor, passed away on June 29.

Born in Ganghwa County, Gyeonggi Province, in 1929, Choi pursued his musical education rigorously. He earned a degree in composition from Seoul National University before furthering his studies in conducting at the Vienna University of Music and Performing Arts in Austria. He later held academic positions, including professor at Hanyang University's Music Department and adjunct professor at Chung-Ang University's Music Education Department.

His most famous work, 'Longing for Geumgangsan,' released in 1961, poignantly captures the sorrow of Korea's division. The song achieved widespread international acclaim after being performed by renowned artists such as Sumi Jo and Plácido Domingo. Choi Young-sup is also the father of Choi Sung-won, a bassist and composer for the band Deulgukhwa.

The memorial service is being held at Severance Hospital in Seoul, with the funeral procession scheduled for July 1 at 6:20 a.m. Choi's passing marks the end of an era for Korean classical music, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with the nation's history and emotions.