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Among the many natural wonders of the Korean peninsula, Seoraksan stands out for its beauty. Rugged mountains tower above deep canyons that were cut out of rock over the course of millennia. Set against this backdrop are temples that have, for centuries, silently witnessed the perpetual shifting of seasons and the sublime spectacle of changing foliage that passes every year.

Autumn at Seoraksan imagines this time and place, with its ancient temples, cool breezes, flowing streams and palette of bright colors blanketing dramatic mountain slopes, all set against a deep blue sky. The piece takes advantage of the rich, low tones of jeongak gayageum to suggest a meditative scene, contemplating the vastness of both time and space that such a place evokes.

The timelessness of the opening section is followed by a gently flowing idea that gradually builds before returning to stillness in the middle. Contemplation then gives way to force, as the raw power of nature bursts forth in a rushing stream of notes, perhaps suggesting the waters that long ago carved these furrowed mountains out of stone. In the brief final section the storm suddenly clears, allowing one more last moment of profound calm before the music disappears into the expanse of the mountains.

About 12 minutes long, Autumn at Seoraksan was commissioned by Jung Min Song (송정민), to whom it is dedicated.