Clapton invited to North Korea
Rock icon Eric Clapton has been invited to play a concert in the North Korean capital Pyongyang, an official at the country’s UK embassy has confirmed. If he accepts, the 62-year-old will become the first Western rock star to perform in the Communist country.
According to newspaper reports Clapton has agreed in principle to the concert, suggesting it takes place in 2009.
News of the invitation follows the New York Philharmonic Orchestra’s landmark concert in the North Korean capital. The North Korean State Symphony Orchestra is due to perform in the UK later this year.
According to embassy officials, an appearance by Clapton would be “a good opportunity for Western music to be understood better by Koreans”.
A spokesman told the BBC the invitation had been received by the singer’s management and brought to his attention. The singer’s management, however, would not confirm the approach.
Kim Jong Chol, the son of national leader Kim Jong Il, is said to be a Clapton fan.
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