Cellist Dongyeol Lee

is a distinguished Korean cellist who emerged onto the international stage in 2023 as one of the rare Korean performers trained entirely in Korea to receive recognition at the prestigious International Tchaikovsky Competition, where he was awarded Fifth Prize in the Cello Division at the 17th Competition.

Beginning his cello studies at the age of five, Lee demonstrated exceptional musical talent from an early age. Through remarkable dedication and artistic growth, he achieved top prizes at many of Korea's most renowned national competitions, establishing himself as one of the leading young cellists of his generation. His early achievements include First Prizes at the Ewha-Kyunghyang Music Competition, Dong-A Music Competition, Busan Music Competition, and Seongjeong Music Competition, as well as the Grand Prize at the Seongjeong Music Competition in 2017. In 2012, he entered Seoul Arts High School as the top-ranked student.

His artistic journey has been deeply influenced by his faith and gratitude, as well as by the guidance of his teachers. Among his important mentors are cellist Meehae Ryo, whose extensive international performance experience broadened his artistic vision, and Professor Kangho Lee, under whose guidance he continues to develop as an artist. He has also had the privilege of studying with distinguished cellists Hyoung-won Chang and Myung-wha Chung, whose teachings have greatly enriched his musical development. He has further studied with Tsuyoshi Tsutsumi, whose profound musical insight has continued to influence his artistic growth. Lee has appeared as a soloist with leading Korean orchestras, including the Gyeonggi Philharmonic Orchestra, Busan Philharmonic Orchestra, Korean Symphony Orchestra, and Bucheon Philharmonic Orchestra. He has also performed in prestigious recital venues and programs, including the Kumho Young Artist Concert Series and International Art Hall recitals, receiving recognition for his expressive musicianship, refined technique, and profound interpretation.

His international career continues to expand. On July 18, 2026, Lee will make his debut at the world-renowned Smetana Hall in Prague, performing Antonín Dvořák's Cello Concerto with the North Czech Philharmonic Orchestra. In April 2027, he is scheduled to make his Mexico debut with the Guanajuato Symphony Orchestra, invited by its Music Director, Maestro Juan Carlos Lomónaco.

Dongyeol Lee graduated from the Korea National University of Arts, School of Music, majoring in cello. With his exceptional artistry, international recognition, and unwavering commitment to musical excellence, Lee is establishing himself as one of Korea's promising cellists on the world stage.

Major Awards

• 20124th Prize, Junior International Tchaikovsky Competition
• 20131st Prize, Ewha-Kyunghyang Music Competition
• 20141st Prize, Dong-A Music Competition
• 20141st Prize, Busan Music Competition
• 20141st Prize, Seongjeong Music Competition
• 2017Grand Prize, Seongjeong Music Competition
• 20235th Prize, 17th International Tchaikovsky Competition — Cello Division

Education

• Seoul Arts High School — admitted as the top-ranked student in 2012
• Korea National University of Arts, School of Music — Cello Performance
• Graduate Studies, Korea National University of Arts, School of Music