Jaeundo is also well known as the “Purple Island.” In May, the entire island is blanketed in vibrant purple lavender blooms. The name comes from the island’s unique aesthetic—rooftops, roads, restaurants, and even dishware are all adorned in shades of purple.
SHINAN, South Korea, April 8 (Korea Bizwire) — The tranquil island of Jaeundo, off the coast of Shinan County in South Jeolla Province, will host the 3rd Piano Island Festival from April 26 to 27, drawing international attention with a high-profile lineup of Italian and Korean artists.
This year’s theme, “Piano Island Jaeundo Meets the Homeland of Piano, Italy,” reflects a cultural exchange between South Korea and Italy, spotlighting classical music and artisan craftsmanship.
A view of Baeksil Beach on Jaeundo Island in Shinan County, South Jeolla Province—also known as “Piano Island”
The event will feature acclaimed Italian performers including pianist Andrea Bacchetti, flutist Giuseppe Nova, and leading tenor Alberto Profeta, as well as a tribute to the late film composer Ennio Morricone.
Festivalgoers will also have the rare opportunity to hear performances on a Fazioli grand piano, the hand-crafted Italian masterpiece known for its meticulous construction, three-meter frame, and use of Alpine spruce. The instrument will be tuned by one of South Korea’s top piano technicians to ensure acoustic perfection.
Jaeundo Island in Shinan County, now even more renowned thanks to the Piano Island Festival
South Korean musicians will also take center stage, with pianist Edwin Kim, known for his intellectual depth and emotional warmth, and soprano Park Sung-hee, celebrated for her lyrical expression and musical sensitivity, serving as both performers and music directors.
A grand ensemble performance featuring 21 pianists and the Prime Philharmonic Orchestra will symbolize unity under the festival’s theme, “Becoming One,” and mark a climactic finale to the spring weekend.
Shinan County hosts flower festivals year-round, with each island developing its own distinctive museum. Pictured: The Shinan Tulip Festival.
Beyond music, the festival promises a rich array of sensory experiences: the Shinan World Gimbap Festa, Borahae Dance Festival, a beachside piano photo zone, and an Italian cultural pavilion operated by the Italian Cultural Institute in Korea. Culinary enthusiasts will enjoy a cooking show by Bruno Cingolani, former executive chef to Pope John Paul II.
“This journey, which began as a small challenge, now crosses oceans to meet Italy, the birthplace of piano,” a Shinan County official said Tuesday. “We warmly invite families to experience joy and harmony through music on Jaeundo.”
The festival has quickly grown into a hallmark cultural event, blending global artistry with local hospitality in one of Korea’s most picturesque island settings. Expectations are high as organizers look to expand the festival’s international reach in 2026.
Image credit: Korea Tourism Organization, Shinan County Office, Yonhap / photonews@koreabizwire.com
