Pansori

Pansori is a Korean genre of musical storytelling performed by a vocalist, known as sorikkun, and a drummer who accompanies on a buk (barrel drum). The singer uses a wide vocal range, virtuosic timbre changes, and extended syllabic patterns to portray multiple characters and emotions, while the drummer provides rhythmic cues and punctuates the narrative.

The tradition emerged in the 17th century among the common people of the Jeolla region and later spread to other parts of Korea. It developed through itinerant performance troupes, including the nomadic namsadang, and grew into a highly organized art form with a standardized repertoire and performance practices. Pansori is noted for its intense expressive style, where content—often rooted in love, social conflict, and moral conflict—is conveyed through voice, speech-like narration, and gesture, supported by percussive accompaniment.

A typical pansori performance is structured into madang, or episodes, which together form a complete narrative. The repertoire comprises several major works, including the five famous tales known as the Five Great Pansori: Chunhyangga, Simcheongga, Heungbuga, Jeokbyeokga, and Sugungga. These stories are performed in concert with the singer’s ability to shift character, mood, and tempo, with the drummer signaling changes in pace and emotion.

In the modern era, pansori remains a living tradition and an important part of Korea’s cultural heritage. It was inscribed by UNESCO in 2003 as an intangible cultural heritage, highlighting its unique collaborative performance and historical significance. Contemporary performances continue to explore traditional interpretations while inviting new audiences.