American National Anthem Likely to Be Played in Pyongyang
by Richardson ~ October 17th, 2007. Filed under: North Korea, U.S.-Korea Relations.In an all out effort to appear to be dealing honestly, North Korea will probably allow the Imperialist U.S. national anthem to be played in Pyongyang:
In talks with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, North Korea has reportedly agreed the orchestra can play “The Star-Spangled Banner”, the national anthem of the U.S., during its first performance in Pyongyang.
[. . .]
The New York Philharmonic does not usually play “The Star-Spangled Banner” in concert overseas. But the orchestra asked North Korea in talks early this month if it could play the U.S. national anthem considering the symbolic nature of its concert in Pyongyang.
The orchestra is still talking with North Korea about a possible performance around February. If that happens, North Korean leader Kim Jong-il, a big fan of music, might attend. It would be the first time the U.S. national anthem has been played in front of the North Korean leader. (emphasis added)
May it give him a fatal heart attack. More likely it will evoke a response about the superiority of the North Korean national anthem, Aegukka (The Song of Love for the Country or The Patriotic Song).
October 17th, 2007 at 1:28 pm
I’m a big fan of the melody of the DPRK anthem. Interestingly enough I didn’t hear it one time at all the events (circuses, Arirang, etc.) when I was there. Later when I hummed it to my tour guide she was astonished anyone outside her country would even know it. Weird.
October 17th, 2007 at 1:42 pm
Unless you live in South Korea (which has the same national anthem as North Korea), I’d also be surprised that you know it.
Nice NK trip pic, btw;
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeku/collections/72157602238721246/
October 17th, 2007 at 2:02 pm
Glad you like the pics!
Actually North and South have different anthems as of 1947 according to that link you posted:
“Before the founding of North Korea, the northern part of Korea initially had as its anthem the same song as South Korea, but North Korea adopted this newly-written piece in 1947.”
October 17th, 2007 at 2:06 pm
You’re right - only the name is the same, Aegukga (or Aegukka).
October 17th, 2007 at 8:36 pm
Tone Deaf…
An orchestra is traveling to Pyongyang. You won’t believe what they intend to play.
In talks with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, North Korea has reportedly agreed the orchestra can play “The Star-Spangled Banner”, the national anthem of…
October 17th, 2007 at 8:54 pm
Enjoy: http://youtube.com/watch?v=CmeV6G9UuE8