New York Philharmonic in North Korea

I was in utter surprise to find out that the most renowned American orchestra, New York Philharmonic, was commissioned to play in North Korea, the communist state that posses nuclear weapons. My first reaction was to be quite fearful for the musicians safety and after seeing the report on Christiane Amanpour I realized how this moment of real people to people connection between two countries, that not too long ago were battling in the Korean War, was a necessary and long-awaited icebreaker. This moment allowed for the first time, an exchange of art and culture between Americans and North Koreans, in hopes of shedding any previous negative stereotypes and the beginning of better communication.

Sincerely,

Bianca Lee