Korean composer Lee Hanurij wins top award at Geneva Competition

Korean composer Lee Hanurij, a 20-year-old prodigy, has been awarded first prize in the composition category of the prestigious Geneva Competition. The final round of the competition, held in Geneva on Wednesday, saw Lee's work "Stuff #1" secure the top honor.

In addition to the first prize, Lee also claimed all six special prizes, including the Audience Prize, Young Audience Prize, and Student Prize. He expressed his elation, calling it a "big honor" and extending his gratitude to the jury. Lee emphasized how the Geneva Competition provides a conducive atmosphere for composers to further develop their work.

Currently enrolled at the Korea National University of Arts, Lee's journey to this victory began at the age of 10 when he was admitted to an academy for music prodigies affiliated with the Seoul Arts Center. His talent was recognized early, as he went on to win the first prize in the composition category at the Bartok World Competition in 2024. Since then, his compositions have been performed in numerous classical music festivals.

Established in 1939, the Geneva Competition is a highly esteemed music contest. The composition competition is held every two years, making Lee Hanurij's achievement all the more remarkable.