Context:

South Korean conductor Myung-whun Chung has been appointed as the new musical director of Teatro alla Scala in Milan, marking the first time an Asian has held this prestigious position. Chung, aged 72, will succeed Riccardo Chailly and will serve until February 2030, coinciding with the term of general manager and artistic director Fortunato Ortombina. Renowned both as a conductor and a pianist, Chung has a significant cultural influence in South Korea and has been instrumental in enhancing La Scala's international reputation. His longstanding relationship with La Scala includes conducting nine operas and 141 concerts since 1989, making him the most prolific non-musical director conductor in the institution's history. Chung's experience extends to roles with the Tokyo Philharmonic, Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France, and the Korean Broadcasting System, among others.

Dive Deeper:

• Myung-whun Chung, a prominent South Korean conductor, has been appointed as the musical director of Teatro alla Scala in Milan, becoming the first Asian to assume this role. His appointment is set to begin at the end of next year and will last until February 2030.

• Chung is set to replace current director Riccardo Chailly, aligning his tenure with that of La Scala's general manager and artistic director, Fortunato Ortombina. His leadership is expected to continue enhancing the opera house's global profile.

• Chung, a distinguished pianist as well, has conducted many of the world’s leading orchestras and is a celebrated cultural icon in South Korea. His contributions have been pivotal in raising La Scala's international standing.

• Since his first engagement with La Scala in 1989, Chung has led nine operas across 84 performances and 141 concerts, distinguishing him as the most prolific conductor at La Scala who was not a musical director.

• His extensive experience includes previous roles as music director of the Tokyo Philharmonic, Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France, and the Korean Broadcasting System, in addition to serving as artistic director in South Korea's Busan Opera and Concert Hall.

• Chung's relationship with La Scala has been characterized by a close and productive collaboration with its orchestra, choir, and philharmonic, further solidifying his impact on the opera house's reputation.

• Throughout his career, Chung has also conducted La Scala's Philharmonic on international tours, visiting countries such as Germany, China, Japan, and South Korea, thereby broadening the institution's global reach.