CultureJuly 14, 2026

haegeum

/hɛɡʌm/

Definition

A traditional Korean string instrument, known as a two-stringed vertical fiddle, played with a bamboo bow inserted between the strings.

Etymology

The word is derived from the Sino-Korean terms 'hae' (foreign/barbarian) and 'geum' (zither/string instrument), reflecting its historical origin as an instrument introduced to Korea from Central Asia or China.

In the news

In this article, the haegeum is featured as a key instrument in a cross-cultural ensemble, where the performer, Kim Ye-ji, explores blending its unique tonal characteristics—like specific vibrato and ornamentation—with Western musical traditions.

The performance, "The wind alone does not make a sound," is a performance in which Korean and French..

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