Okkyung Lee

Okkyung Lee is a renowned cellist, composer, and improviser from South Korea whose innovative approach to her instrument has made her a distinctive force in contemporary experimental music. Born in Daejeon, South Korea in 1975, Lee initially trained in classical music before moving to the United States, where she earned degrees from Berklee College of Music and the New England Conservatory. Since relocating to New York City in 2000, Lee has developed a unique sonic language that blends avant-garde improvisation, noise, jazz, and traditional Korean music, exploring the full textural and expressive possibilities of the cello.

She is known for her intense, physical performances and has collaborated with a diverse roster of artists, including John Zorn, Laurie Anderson, Thurston Moore, and Christian Marclay. Lee’s acclaimed solo recordings, such as "Ghil" and "Yeo-Neun," reflect her fearless experimentation and emotional depth, earning her international recognition as a trailblazer in contemporary music. Beyond performing, she is a curator and organizer, notably leading the annual “Am I Born to Die” festival and championing new collaborations that challenge genre boundaries.

Okkyung Lee’s artistry represents a vital, ever-evolving dialogue between tradition and innovation, resonating powerfully across cultures and disciplines.