Meldy Mélody arrives in Korea with an energy that truly resembles her: generous, passionate, and wholehearted. Pianist, classical singer, composer, and fashion designer, she carries a career path built with patience and determination. At 29 years old, she has already lived several artistic lives, spanning self-produced albums, World Champion titles, and performances where music and fashion meet on stage.
Appointed Ambassador of Toulouse, she chose to turn this journey into a genuine cultural mission. With "La Valise de Toulouse" (The Toulouse Suitcase), she presented her region, its history, and its symbols at the Alliance Française in Busan, while sharing her music with the Korean public. In this written interview conducted on August 1st, she reflects on a trip marked by kindness, student curiosity, spontaneous smiles, and the warm feeling of being welcomed as if she were already part of the local landscape.
This portrait reveals an artist who moves forward with heart, stays true to herself, and sees every encounter as an opportunity to build a bridge between cultures.
1. To begin, could you introduce yourself and explain how you were chosen to represent your region during this mission to Korea?
Meldy Mélody: “My name is Mélody, stage name Meldy Mélody, and I am 29 years old. I am a pianist, lyricist, composer, performer, classical singer, and fashion designer. I released my first self-produced CD at the age of 19. Today, I have released 5 CDs of my musical compositions under my own label, and my 6th album is coming very soon. I sang for 7 years in the Children's Choir of the Théâtre National du Capitole in Toulouse. In 2021 and 2023, I was a double French Champion Instrumentalist and Gold Medalist in Cannes. In 2023 in Los Angeles, I was crowned Triple World Champion Instrumentalist and Gold Medalist. In 2024, I was once again named Triple World Champion Instrumentalist and World Champion in Classical Singing. I am also a fashion designer with two collections presented during Fashion Week.
I have always dreamed of discovering Korea. When the opportunity arose to give a musical performance there, I also wanted to represent my city, Toulouse. I was appointed Ambassador of Toulouse by the Toulouse Ambassadors Club. On this occasion, Muriel Martin invited me to present 'La Valise de Toulouse' in Korea, which led me to the Alliance Française in Busan. 'La Valise de Toulouse' is a cultural showcase designed to introduce the history, heritage, businesses, and treasures of Toulouse.”
I have always dreamed of discovering Korea. When the opportunity arose to give a musical performance there, I also wanted to represent my city, Toulouse. I was appointed Ambassador of Toulouse by the Toulouse Ambassadors Club. On this occasion, Muriel Martin invited me to present 'La Valise de Toulouse' in Korea, which led me to the Alliance Française in Busan. 'La Valise de Toulouse' is a cultural showcase designed to introduce the history, heritage, businesses, and treasures of Toulouse.”
2. Now that your trip has concluded, how would you describe this unique experience abroad?
Meldy Mélody: “This trip will remain one of the most beautiful experiences of my life. I discovered a fascinating country that remains deeply attached to its traditions while being resolutely turned toward the future. Korea is modern, futuristic, and innovative, yet it preserves a very strong cultural identity. I was amazed by the richness of its culture, the beauty of its landscapes, temples, and cities, as well as the unique atmosphere of each location. Korean gastronomy is exceptional, varied, and generous.
But what touched me the most was the warm welcome, kindness, and respect of the people I met. A simple smile is often returned, and these small gestures make all the difference. Finally, art holds an important place in Korea: in the streets, cafes, and public places. As a musician, this deeply moved me. It was an exciting and enriching immersion.”
But what touched me the most was the warm welcome, kindness, and respect of the people I met. A simple smile is often returned, and these small gestures make all the difference. Finally, art holds an important place in Korea: in the streets, cafes, and public places. As a musician, this deeply moved me. It was an exciting and enriching immersion.”
3. What was the most memorable moment of your stay as a cultural representative?
Meldy Mélody: “My first musical performance in Korea, in the city of Namwon, will remain a deeply emotional moment. Sharing my art with the Korean public was an honor. Another highlight was my lecture surrounding 'La Valise de Toulouse'. Seeing the genuine interest in my city, its history, and its culture touched me profoundly. The exchanges with students and professors were rich and inspiring. Ultimately, it was the human encounters that marked me the most: benevolent people, sincere connections, and perhaps the beginning of future collaborations between Toulouse and Korea.”
4. How did the Korean public receive your work and your presentations on site?
Meldy Mélody: “The audience was warm, attentive, and captivated, both during my lecture and my musical performance. I felt a great intellectual curiosity and a sincere interest in French culture. Music became a universal language that allowed us to communicate with emotion beyond language barriers. I was touched by their enthusiasm to discover Toulouse. This experience reinforced my belief that art and culture build true bridges between our two countries.”
5. Which elements of your local heritage generated the most interest among South Koreans?
Meldy Mélody: “The Korean public was captivated by the history and architectural heritage of Toulouse, especially the Place du Capitole. They were fascinated by the contrast between the poetic pink bricks and the city's aeronautical and space industry. The items inside 'La Valise de Toulouse' sparked many questions:
- The pink brick magnet
- The Stade Toulousain mini rugby ball
- Violet tea
- The blue bandana dyed with pastel
6. Did you face any particular challenges during this mission, and how did you overcome them?
Meldy Mélody: “The main challenge was the language. I know a few words of Korean and can manage in English. Fortunately, the kindness and hospitality of the Korean people helped me immensely. Even when I was lost in the subway, someone would spontaneously come over to assist me.”
7. What positive outcomes have you observed following your participation in this international event?
Meldy Mélody: “This mission strengthened the cultural ties between Toulouse and Korea. The Korean public showed a genuine interest in France, its heritage, and its culture. I saw firsthand how artistic exchanges bring people closer together. I hope to inspire other French people to discover Korea. I was particularly moved to find The Little Prince at Gamcheon Culture Village, a wonderful nod to Toulouse and Saint-Exupéry. It beautifully illustrates the magnificent cultural bridges between Toulouse and Busan.”
8. Would you like to develop other projects to strengthen the bond between your region and Korea?
Meldy Mélody: “Yes, with immense pleasure! Cultural exchanges are essential to bring nations closer together. This experience enriched me and made me want to pursue international projects. I would love to organize concerts, festivals, exhibitions, lectures, or initiatives centered around the Francophonie. I would adore performing in Korea again and remain open to all proposals for artistic collaboration. I cannot wait to return!”