Austin Kim Wows in Solo Concert with Special Duet by Yoon Hyung-joo

A Dazzling Debut Concert

Contralto Austin Kim, known as a member of the crossover group Fortena and runner-up on JTBC’s Phantom Singer 4, recently held his highly anticipated first solo concert. Titled ‘Salon de Musik’, the concert took place on May 18 and 25 at the Prugio Art Hall in Seoul’s Jung-gu district, drawing a full house and enthusiastic applause.

From Korean Ballads to Romantic Pop Classics

Kicking off the evening with the Korean art song “Janhyang” by Yoon Hak-jun, Kim took the audience on a genre-spanning musical journey. He performed tracks like “Expecting You,” “In Time,” and Yang Hee-eun’s “Hangyerung,” showcasing his gentle resonance and emotional depth. The repertoire quickly shifted to beloved German lieder classics by Schubert and Strauss, all reinterpreted through Kim’s unique vocal style.

Surprise Guest Appearance: Yoon Hyung-joo

The highlight of the evening came when folk legend Yoon Hyung-joo made an unexpected appearance. Together, the two delivered an exquisite duet of “Danny Boy,” their voices blending effortlessly into an unforgettable harmony. Their chemistry on stage brought a new depth to the classic tune, earning roaring cheers from the crowd.

Powerful Finale and Lasting Impression

Austin Kim closed the night with “Confusa si miri,” backed by a stellar trio of accompanists—Choi Hyun-ho, Ji Ik-hwan, and Jo Hyang-oh—whose delicate performances added richness to the show. From Korean and German art songs to jazz and pop classics like Michael Bublé’s “When I Fall in Love” and Frank Sinatra’s “Nothing But The Best,” Kim proved himself a true musical all-rounder.

From Rising Star to NeoStar Award Contender

Kim’s rise doesn’t stop at his solo concert. A graduate of Sunhwa Arts High School and the first countertenor admitted to Berlin University of the Arts, one of Europe’s most prestigious institutions, Kim is now ranked second in the ongoing Netizen Awards NeoStar voting for May. His captivating androgynous voice and bold artistry continue to capture hearts across generations.

What’s Next for Austin Kim?

Having crossed a major milestone with his solo debut, Austin Kim is expected to further expand his presence in both classical and crossover scenes. With growing fan support and critical acclaim, the music world can expect this contralto powerhouse to shine even brighter.