Haebaragi’s Lee Joo-ho and Lee Kwang-joon reunite for first solo concert in 35 years — ‘With Love’ marks 50th anniversary

Two masters bring voices of comfort spanning half a century back to the stage

Haebaragi, a living witness to the history of Korean folk music, is preparing a special performance to mark its five-decade musical journey. Haebaragi Entertainment, the group’s agency, said it will hold the 50th anniversary concert “With Love” at 5 p.m. Nov. 1 at Art Hall Mac at Mapo Art Center in Seoul.

The concert carries special significance. It will mark the first solo concert in 35 years for Lee Joo-ho, the group’s leader and central figure, and Lee Kwang-joon to perform together as a duo. After many years apart, the two are reunited onstage, stirring both nostalgia and anticipation among fans.

Haebaragi traces its beginnings to 1975. Led by Lee Joo-ho, the group started as a four-member mixed-gender act with Lee Jung-sun, Han Young-ae and Kim Young-mi. In 1977, it released its landmark first full-length album.

Although the group underwent several lineup changes, including a reconfiguration as a duo with Yoo Ik-jong in 1983, it produced enduring classics in Korean popular music such as “A Person Who Brings Happiness” and “With Love.” Lee Kwang-joon, who took part in the group’s second-album activities, is now a key musical partner.

The organizers said, “The two masters will sing each song with sincerity and connect with the audience in the most comfortable setting,” adding, “We will vividly convey Haebaragi’s signature ensemble, refined over many years, along with its warm emotional impact.”