Hyundai Motor Group Officially Sponsors Jo Sumi International Vocal Competition to Discover Next-Generation Opera Stars

Supported the Second Competition Following 2024
More Than 500 Applicants from 55 Countries Worldwide
Official Vehicles and Dedicated Chauffeur Services Provided

Hyundai Motor Group participated as the official sponsor of the second Jo Sumi International Vocal Competition, an event aimed at discovering the next generation of opera stars.

The Genesis G80 electrified model and soprano Sumi Jo displayed at Chateau de La Ferte-Imbault in the Loire region of France, where the 2nd Sumi Jo International Vocal Competition was held. Hyundai Motor Group

Hyundai Motor Group announced on July 12 that the second Jo Sumi International Vocal Competition, for which it served as official sponsor, was held successfully from July 6 to 11 (local time) at Chateau de La Ferte-Imbault, a historic castle in the Loire region of central France.

The Jo Sumi International Vocal Competition, founded by world-renowned soprano Jo Sumi to discover emerging artists and nurture future talent, was held for the second time this year following its inaugural event in 2024.

The judging panel featured Jo Sumi herself, along with prominent figures in the global classical music community: Jonathan Friend, former Artistic Advisor at the Metropolitan Opera in New York; Paolo Gabazzini, Casting Manager at La Scala Theatre in Milan; Melanie Almendinger, Head of Artistic Administration at the Royal Opera House in London; Alain Lanceron, Honorary President of leading classical labels Warner Classics and Erato; and tenor Marcelo Alvarez. Their participation made the competition a platform for connecting the next generation of vocalists with the broader music world.

This year’s competition was open to vocalists aged 18 to 32. With more than 500 applicants from 55 countries worldwide, the event drew significant global attention, reflecting the high level of interest among young artists aspiring to become the next generation of vocal stars.

Hyundai Motor Group continued its support as the official sponsor this year, as it did for the inaugural competition, backing the growth and aspirations of emerging artists set to lead the global classical music scene.

Soprano Jo Sumi stated, "We have established this international competition to discover and support artists with a global vision who can create a better world through music," adding, "I am proud and grateful to partner with Hyundai Motor Group in this international cultural event that elevates Korea's stature."

This year is especially significant as it marks the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and France. By sponsoring the competition held in France, Hyundai Motor Group contributed not only to fostering the next generation of artistic talent and promoting classical culture, but also to expanding cultural and artistic exchanges between the two countries.

At the competition venue, Chateau de La Ferte-Imbault, Hyundai Motor Group set up a special exhibition space showcasing the Genesis GV70 Electrified and G80 Electrified models, drawing considerable attention.

Through this, leaders and guests from the global cultural and arts community attending gala concerts and various side events during the competition had the opportunity to experience the Genesis brand firsthand.

In addition, the Hyundai Motor and Kia France subsidiaries, along with Genesis Europe, invited key French customers and members of the cultural and artistic community to the event, providing a distinctive customer experience centered around culture and the arts.

Furthermore, the G90 was operated as an official vehicle, with a dedicated chauffeur service provided to support the transportation needs of judges and key participants, thereby ensuring smooth event operations.

A Hyundai Motor Group representative stated, "It is especially meaningful to continue supporting this competition, held in France during such a landmark year marking the 140th anniversary of Korea-France diplomatic relations. We will continue to offer sincere support for culture and the arts, contribute to the expansion of cultural engagement and global cultural exchange, and further strengthen communications with our global customers."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.