She’s been hailed as one of the most exciting violinists of her generation, but Bomsori Kim resists any simple definition despite her many accolades. Born in South Korea and educated at Seoul National University as well as Juilliard, the award-winning violinist’s rise to classical music stardom has been less about ticking off the many music competitions she’s entered (and won, including the ARD International Music Competition, Tchaikovsky International Competition, Queen Elisabeth Competition, and the International Jean Sibelius Violin Competition); the number of famous halls in which she has performed (the BBC Proms and Hollywood Bowl are just some of the many performances that featured Kim); and even her collaborations with the likes of the New York Philharmonic. Kim is also the first South Korean female violinist to sign an exclusive contract with Deutsche Grammophon and was named ambassador for composer Grażyna Bacewica by Polish Music Publishing House (PWM Edition).
Rather, it is the warmth of her playing and magnetic presence that has the audience mesmerised. Her interpretations, whether of Bruch or Szymanowski, are almost always as smart as they are intuitive. “I always start with listening—not just to the notes, but to what’s behind them,” she says. “I try to understand the composer’s language, then I let the music pass through my own experiences and emotions. It’s a balance between structure and freedom, logic and instinct.
“For me, music is always about storytelling,” she continues. “Whether it’s Bach or something new, I look for the emotional thread. Technique changes, but expression is always at the centre. I love exploring contrasts and discovering unexpected connections between styles.”
Her approach is also shaped by an affinity for Polish music. “I feel a deep connection with composers such as Szymanowski and Wieniawski. Their music is full of lyricism, drama, and soul. I studied in Poland for years, so I feel emotionally very close to their musical language.”
Kim brings that same emotional language to Bruch’s Violin Concerto No. 1, a work she will perform at her debut with the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) at Dewan Filharmonik Petronas on 28 June 2025. “It’s such a heartfelt piece. I think it’s perfect for a debut because it allows me to express a wide range of emotions—from intimacy to grandeur,” she says. “It’s a very direct and emotional way to introduce myself musically to a new audience.”
Although she has played Bruch countless times around the world, she says the music never grows stale. “Bruch’s Violin Concerto No. 1 is a great example,” she says. “I’ve played it many times, but it never feels the same. As I grow, the way I experience its phrasing, timing, and emotion evolves too. It reflects where I am in life.”
Her performance with the MPO also marks her first visit to Kuala Lumpur, and she’s adamant about feeling her way around the city before her performance. “I usually try to absorb the atmosphere of the city before the concert—whether it’s by walking around or just observing people. That helps me feel more connected when I’m on stage,” Kim says. “I’m really looking forward to the collaboration with the orchestra, the conductor, and the audience. I’ve heard the hall has amazing acoustics, and I’m excited to feel the energy of the space and make music together for the first time there.”
Although her schedule often demands constant travel and rehearsals, Kim finds balance through routine and introspection. “I like to stay quiet before a concert. I breathe deeply, stretch a little, and spend time alone with the score. I don’t like to rush. I just try to stay calm and centred before stepping on stage,” she says.
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Offstage, she embraces the time between performances. “I love good food, going to museums, or spending time in nature. Even just a walk or reading a book helps me recharge,” Kim shares. “I also enjoy silence—it’s the opposite of the intensity of concerts, and I need that balance.”
As for what’s next, her appetite for discovery remains undimmed. “There are so many (things)! I’d love to collaborate more with living composers and explore new works,” Kim says. “Also, I dream of performing more chamber music with friends. Music is a never-ending journey—there’s always something new to dream about.”
Bomsori Kim performs with the Malaysia Philharmonic Orchestra at Dewan Filharmonik in a one-night-only performance at 8pm on 28 June 2025. Ticket prices start at RM229. Please visit dfp.com.my for more information.
Photographs courtesy of Bomsori Kim
