Maestro Chung Myung Whun Steps Down As Music Director Of Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra; Says Humanity Is ‘More Important Than Music’

August this year, maestro Chung Myung Whun revealed he will not sign another contract with the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra (SPO) amid controversy that embroiled him in embezzlement allegations.

Despite the scandal, the 62-year-old pianist and conductor vowed to donate his fees to charitable institutions such as UNICEF and to SPO's development.

Days before his contract expires, Chung announced his resignation from SPO on Tuesday. Korea Times reported on the same day that the announcement came after the SPO board and the Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) allegedly postponed the renewal of Chung's contract.

"It is with great sadness that I write this letter of departure from the SPO at the end of my tenth year as your music director," Chung said in his resignation letter. "I regret that I cannot continue as your music director, but as I have said before, there is one thing more important than music, and that is humanity."

"Until this issue is resolved, it is impossible for me to continue my musical work work with you."

An official from SPO revealed that Chung has informed CEO Choe Heung Sik Tuesday about his intention to step down from his post as the music director of the orchestra.

The maestro also said that the decision to leave his post is "regrettable" but added that he "[has] something more important than music to look after," as noted by Yonhap News Agency Tuesday.

Reports revealed that Chung's decision to step down came after his wife was booked on charges of reportedly defaming former chief conductor Park Hyun Jung, who was allegedly linked to sexual and verbal harassments.

"That's the question of philanthropy, and until that question is resolved, I'm no longer able to continue playing music with the SPO. I want to help the 17 employees who failed to be treated in the way all human-beings deserve to be treated by the former chief conductor," Chung added.