Pansori (판소리) is a traditional Korean form of musical storytelling performed by a vocalist (sorikkun) and a drummer (gosu). The word “pansori” combines pan (판), meaning “a place where people gather,” and sori (소리), meaning “sound” or “voice.” Together, the term refers to a shared vocal performance—a storytelling art meant to be heard and felt in a communal setting.
Pansori began in Korea’s southern provinces during the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897), likely in the 17th or 18th century. It grew from folk traditions, shamanistic rituals, and local storytelling culture, and was often performed outdoors for commoners. Rich in humor, emotion, and social commentary, pansori offered a powerful way for ordinary people to engage with strong themes such as loyalty, love, suffering, and justice.
These works are typically long and emotionally intense, combining stylized singing, spoken narration, dramatic gestures, and rhythmic drumming. In 2003, pansori was recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Today, it is studied and performed around the world, celebrated not only for its musical beauty but for its storytelling power and emotional depth.
Recently, this cultural legacy was brought to life in a recent lecture and performance by Dr. Chan E. Park, a renowned scholar, performer, and advocate of pansori from Ohio State University. She inaugurated the Korean Performance Research Program at Ohio State and hosted the Annual Korean Wind and Stream performance event until her retirement in 2021. Dr. Park is known for her pioneering work in adapting pansori for English-speaking audiences and integrating it into global conversations on traditional arts and contemporary performance. Her visit to the Hesburgh Library showcased both the art’s historical roots and its dynamic modern possibilities, engaging students, faculty, and community members alike.
For many Koreans and global audiences today, pansori remains a culturally significant performative art. It bridges generations, languages, and cultures, inspiring both traditional performers and modern creators. Whether experienced in its classic form or through contemporary interpretations, pansori continues to stir hearts, provoke thought, and connect people through the timeless power of storytelling.
About the CSLC
The Center for the Study of Languages and Cultures (CSLC) aims to support language learners at ND by facilitating meaningful experiences with linguistic acquisition and exchange - both in our campus community and abroad. We believe that access to the world's languages and cultures allows us to seek out new perspectives, to value the diversity of the world's cultures, and to embody global citizenship.
Originally published by at cslc.nd.edu on April 24, 2025.