By Honorary Reporter Solaleh Emami from Iran
Video and photos = Mahdi Norouzi

The Istgah Orchestra of Iran has created its own version of "Golden," released on Sep. 30, the hit song from the soundtrack to the animated blockbuster "KPop Demon Hunters." 

Launched on the international scene in 2015, the group performed with the Korean ambassador to Iran, who sang a Persian song. 

The following are excerpts from an email interview with Mahdi Norouzi, founder and CEO of the orchestra, from Oct. 12–16 on his group's activities.

How many performances has Istgah held with the Korean Embassy in Tehran?
In 2024 and 2025, we collaborated on projects with the Korean Embassy out of a shared commitment to cultural exchange between both countries. We could share ideas easily and he performed several Persian songs with precision and emotion. Additionally, we performed the piece "Golden" in an orchestral arrangement for the first time in the world.

The Korean ambassador is performing the Persian song "Nazanin Maryam" alongside Istgah Orchestra as a special cultural collaboration.

Has this collaboration received coverage in the media of both countries?
The collaboration was very well received and became one of the most widely reported cultural events. Major Iranian news agencies covered it, and the feedback and comments from audiences were overwhelmingly positive.

How did the idea for the orchestral performance of "Golden" come about?
The selection was suggested by the Korean Embassy and chosen due to its tremendous popularity among youth worldwide. Istgah Orchestra worked diligently to create a high-quality orchestral arrangement and performance. The goal was to accurately convey the beauty and appeal of this song through a fresh and distinctive orchestral interpretation.

  Istgah Orchestra is showcasing a unique cultural fusion between Iran and Korea through this world-first orchestral performance of "Golden."

Why do you think K-pop stands out?
In recent years, Korea and its artists have integrated their traditional music with global trends, allowing K-pop to reach and influence other cultures. Any country that carefully plans, utilizes its traditional music and updates it with contemporary approaches can achieve international success.

Do you see any similarities between Korean and Iranian music?
Absolutely. We are conducting this interview today because the fusion of Korean and Iranian cultures has created highly appealing output for audiences. Without common points, this impact would not be felt. Identifying or creating common ground has been the key goal in all our collaborations with the Korean Embassy.

Any message for Koreans and those interested in Korean music in Iran?
People from both countries can create new chapters in mutual cultural projects and gain a fresh perspective on global culture. Both Korea and Iran possess rich, influential and cultural traditions.

Istgah Orchestra members perform at the Korean Embassy in Tehran.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article was written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.