Kim Se-hyun Wins First Place at Long-Thibaud International Piano Competition
The Kumho Cultural Foundation announced that pianist Kim Se-hyun (18) secured first place at the Long-Thibaud International Piano Competition held in Paris, France, on March 30 (local time). "Honestly, I didn't expect it, so when my name was called, I was in disbelief and just dazed," he shared.
In addition to winning the top prize, Kim also received three special awards: the Audience Prize, the Press Prize, and the Student Vote Prize. The Long-Thibaud competition, which has been held since 1943, is known for featuring prominent pianists like Lim Dong-hyuk (2001) and Lee Hyuk (2022) as past winners. During the finals, Kim performed Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 3. In a phone interview immediately after his victory, he expressed, "I’m not usually satisfied with my performances, but I have no regrets because I did my best." Coincidentally, March 31 is also his birthday, making this win a special gift for him.
Kim began his piano studies at the age of four and made his debut in 2018 at the Kumho Young Artist Concert. He gained early recognition as a 'next-generation performer' by winning first place at the Cleveland International Youth Piano Competition in 2023. Notably, while attending Yewon School, he moved to the United States and is currently pursuing dual degrees at Harvard University and the New England Conservatory (NEC). An avid reader of Rilke and Dostoevsky, he expressed a desire to major in English literature at Harvard. He stated, "While I love the piano the most, I believe there is a risk of viewing the world too narrowly. The more perspectives and windows I have to view the world, the richer my long-term perspective on music will become."
When asked about his aspirations as a performer, he replied, "I don’t set a specific endpoint to chase. I find happiness in reflecting on myself each day and performing in a way that others would enjoy." His teacher, pianist Baek Hye-sun, a professor at NEC, praised him for his deep thinking and serious nature, noting that he considers not just the keys but also the acoustic effects of the performance space, showcasing his multifaceted approach to music.
Meanwhile, pianist Lee Hyo (18) achieved third place, marking a unique milestone as the younger brother of 2022 winner Lee Hyuk, creating a 'brotherly achievement' record.
