Traditional Korean Music Finds New Life in Gaming Soundscapes

The convergence of traditional Korean music, or gugak, with the dynamic world of video games is transforming how younger generations experience and appreciate this ancient art form. This collaboration has not only introduced gugak to a global audience but also demonstrated its versatility and relevance in modern media. The National Gugak Center and the National Theater of Korea have been pivotal in these initiatives, showcasing the potential of gugak through innovative musical compositions for popular games.

Discover How Gugak and Gaming Are Redefining Cultural Boundaries

Breaking Stereotypes: A New Era for Gugak

The integration of gugak into video game soundtracks represents a significant shift in how traditional Korean music is perceived. Historically, gugak was often viewed as an inaccessible art form, reserved for formal performances and older audiences. However, the National Gugak Center and the National Theater of Korea recognized the power of gaming as a medium to bridge generational gaps. By collaborating with leading game developers like Pearl Abyss and NCSoft, they have successfully challenged preconceived notions about gugak’s accessibility.In September 2023, Pearl Abyss launched the Land of Morning Light: Seoul expansion for their MMORPG Black Desert. The accompanying theme music, titled “Painting Joseon,” featured original scores inspired by gugak. This strategic move garnered widespread acclaim, including recognition from the Culture Ministry. The event highlighted the potential of gugak to transcend cultural boundaries and connect with diverse audiences worldwide.

Pioneering Collaborations: Expanding Horizons

The National Gugak Center has consistently sought opportunities to innovate and expand the reach of traditional Korean music. One notable example is their partnership with AK Interactive for the concert “Music Odyssey: The Great Merchant.” This collaboration reinterpreted music from the game The Great Merchant, which explores the rich cultural landscapes of East Asia. The concert brought together elements of gugak and contemporary orchestral arrangements, offering a fresh perspective on both the game and the music.Additionally, the National Gugak Center has released two series of soundtracks under the Game Sound Series initiative. The first batch, launched in May, featured arrangements from popular titles such as Lies of P, Skul, and MapleStory. These tracks were meticulously crafted to blend traditional gugak instruments with modern electronic sounds, creating a unique auditory experience. The second series, released in December, included music from Night Crows, PUBG: Battlegrounds, and League of Legends, further solidifying the center’s commitment to exploring new frontiers.

Impact and Reach: Engaging Global Audiences

The success of these collaborations can be measured not only by critical acclaim but also by the sheer number of players engaging with the music. Games like Night Crows, PUBG: Battlegrounds, and League of Legends boast impressive peak concurrent user numbers, reaching hundreds of thousands to millions of players globally. For instance, PUBG: Battlegrounds recorded 800,000 concurrent users in September 2024, while the League of Legends Champions Korea finals attracted nearly 4.1 million simultaneous viewers in April 2024.These figures underscore the vast potential for gugak to reach and resonate with a global audience. The availability of the soundtracks on major music streaming platforms and the National Gugak Center’s website ensures that fans can enjoy this unique fusion of traditional and modern music at any time. As the gaming industry continues to grow, the future looks bright for further collaborations that will continue to redefine cultural boundaries.

Beyond Entertainment: Educational Value and Cultural Exchange

Beyond entertainment, these collaborations serve as valuable educational tools, introducing players to the rich history and traditions of Korean culture. The incorporation of gugak into game soundtracks provides an immersive experience that goes beyond mere background music. It invites players to explore the nuances of traditional Korean instruments and melodies, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art form.Moreover, these partnerships facilitate cultural exchange, allowing international players to gain insights into Korean heritage. For example, the use of gugak in games like Guild Wars 2: End of Dragons and Black Desert has sparked interest in Korean culture among Western audiences. This cross-cultural dialogue enriches the gaming experience and promotes mutual understanding between different cultures.

Innovative Approaches: Future Possibilities

Looking ahead, the possibilities for integrating gugak into the gaming industry are endless. The National Gugak Center and the National Theater of Korea have already laid the groundwork for future collaborations, demonstrating the potential of gugak to evolve and adapt to modern contexts. With ongoing advancements in technology and increasing global interest in Korean culture, the stage is set for more innovative projects that will continue to push the boundaries of traditional music.One promising avenue is the development of interactive experiences that allow players to engage directly with gugak. Imagine a virtual reality environment where players can learn to play traditional Korean instruments or participate in a live performance. Such innovations would not only enhance the gaming experience but also preserve and promote the legacy of gugak for future generations.