‘OST Symphony II: K-Drama in Concert’ delivers a stirring celebration of music

A great soundtrack doesn’t just accompany the story — it sneaks into your soul and hits replay without asking.

Following the resounding success of its debut last year, OST Symphony II: K-Drama in Concert returned to the stage with greater grandeur and emotional depth, reaffirming the powerful bond between K-drama and its devoted Filipino audience.

Presented in partnership with the Korean Cultural Center, Cultural Center of the Philippines, National Commission for Culture and the Arts and supported by the Korea Tourism Organization-Manila Office, Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency, SM Supermalls, VIU Philippines and GMA, the concert transformed the venue into a living soundtrack — one filled with drama, passion, and heart-stirring melodies.

At the center of it all was the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Herminigildo Ranera, whose dynamic leadership and expressive direction guided the ensemble through a masterful performance. Fresh from a successful UK tour, the PPO demonstrated both technical precision and emotional finesse, taking the audience on a journey through the soundscapes of Korea’s most beloved dramas.

The repertoire ranged from the adrenaline-pumping beats of Kpop Demon Hunters to the delicate, romantic strains of Crash Landing on You, and the moving, bittersweet tones of When Life Gives You Tangerines. Each piece unfolded like a scene from the television, evoking memories of characters, stories, and emotions that have touched audiences across the globe.

Complementing the orchestra were an impressive lineup of guest performers who brought added warmth and personality to the stage. Hong Isaac, the Korean singer-songwriter known for his evocative voice, delivered heartfelt renditions that silenced the room with their sincerity. YEGNY, one of Korea’s rising musical talents, captivated the crowd with her fresh energy and soulful charm. Representing local talent were Kyline Alcantara and Angel Guardian, whose performances bridged both artistry and emotion that further highlighted the synergy between Filipino passion and Korean creativity.

Beyond its musical brilliance, OST Symphony II stood as a celebration of friendship and cultural connection between Korea and the Philippines. The collaboration of artists, institutions, and audiences alike reflected how music continues to transcend boundaries

— uniting people through shared emotion and universal stories.

By the concert’s end, the applause that filled the hall was not just for the performances but for the experience itself — a reminder that in every melody and lyric lies the timeless magic of K-drama. With its sweeping orchestral sound, world-class performances, and heartfelt storytelling, OST Symphony II reaffirmed why these soundtracks continue to resonate long after the final curtain falls.