Seoul National University professor Hilary Vanessa Finchum-Sung will give a presentation on the preservation of musical traditions on Jindo Island, South Jeolla Province, on Sept. 29.

In her presentation, hosted by the Royal Asiatic Society Korea Branch, Finchum-Sung will talk about her fieldwork at Sopo-ri on Jindo Island, which has been designated a traditional arts village.

She will talk about government recognition of local musical traditions and its history of involvement with traveling performance groups led to the designation, but also argue that local competition and the actions of individuals have also kept the local traditions going.

Her focus will be on how traditions are being handed down, including a look at the activities of local preservation societies.

The lecture starts at 7:30 p.m. at the Residents’ Lounge at Somerset Palace, near Anguk Station in Seoul. Admission is free for RASKB members and 7,000 won for nonmembers.

(paulkerry@heraldcorp.com)