Offenbach am Main/Seoul, 12 March 2025 – In a remarkable confluence of artistry and corporate patronage, the Chamber Orchestra of Europe (COE) embarks on a prestigious tour across Europe and South Korea, performing Beethoven’s five piano concertos under the direction of renowned Korean pianist Sunwook Kim. Hyundai Motor Company, as the proud sponsor, reaffirms its dedication to fostering cultural enrichment through this collaboration, continuing its legacy of supporting the arts on a global scale.
A Musical Journey Across Continents
From 22 March to 12 April 2025, the COE and Sunwook Kim will grace 12 esteemed concert halls, bringing Beethoven’s timeless compositions to audiences in Belgium, Germany, France, Austria, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. The tour begins at the Salle Philharmonique in Liège, Belgium, followed by landmark venues including the Berliner Philharmonie, Halle aux Grains in Toulouse, and the historic Schloss Esterházy in Eisenstadt. In South Korea, performances will be held at Daejeon Arts Center, Susung Artpia in Daegu, LG Arts Center in Seoul, and the Lotte Concert Hall. The grand finale will take place in the UK, with concerts at Saffron Hall and London’s Barbican Centre.
“I am honoured to perform my beloved Beethoven piano concertos with the wonderful musicians of the Chamber Orchestra of Europe,” says Sunwook Kim. “This tour is an extraordinary opportunity to share our passion for music and create unforgettable moments together. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Hyundai Motor Company for making this possible.”
Each performance will offer a unique programme, featuring Beethoven’s Piano Concertos alongside contemporary works by Anna Clyne and Helen Grime, ensuring a dynamic and enriching concert experience for audiences worldwide.
Hyundai’s Commitment to the Arts and Culture
Hyundai Motor Company’s sponsorship of this tour underscores its long-standing commitment to cultural initiatives. The company has consistently championed global arts institutions, including the Tate Modern in London, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and the Korean Pavilion at the Venice Biennale. Hyundai’s “Progress for Humanity” philosophy extends beyond mobility solutions, aiming to bridge cultures and create meaningful connections through the arts.
“Supporting artists like Sunwook Kim is incredibly meaningful to Hyundai,” says Laura Rathai, Vice President Marketing of Hyundai Motor Europe. “We’ve always been proud to champion Korean and international talents, whether in music, design, or the broader arts. This tour is another opportunity to connect cultures and celebrate the beauty of classical music.”
Hyundai’s Vision for a Sustainable Future
Beyond cultural sponsorships, Hyundai Motor Europe is at the forefront of sustainable mobility, with a strong focus on zero-tailpipe-emission vehicles. With a market share of 4.1 per cent in the first half of 2024, Hyundai continues to lead Europe’s transition to sustainable transportation. The company has pledged to sell only zero-tailpipe-emission vehicles in Europe by 2035, reinforcing its role as a pioneer in the electric vehicle market.
Hyundai’s commitment to innovation is reflected in its award-winning electric models, including the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6, both recognised as World Car of the Year winners. The 2024 introduction of the IONIQ 5 N and the upcoming INSTER further solidify Hyundai’s vision for a cleaner, more connected future.
A Harmonious Collaboration
The COE’s tour with Sunwook Kim, made possible by Hyundai’s unwavering support, is a testament to the company’s belief in the transformative power of music. By bringing Beethoven’s masterpieces to audiences across Europe and South Korea, Hyundai continues to foster cultural appreciation and international collaboration, in perfect harmony with its ethos of “Progress for Humanity.”
For music lovers and Hyundai enthusiasts alike, this tour represents a unique celebration of tradition, innovation, and artistic excellence.
