Hankyoreh writes that, according to industry estimates, the number of devout classical music fans in South Korea is 30,000; that reportedly includes 3,000 die-hard fans who will go to hear a concert regardless of price. The paper doesn't specify how the estimates were reached.

Ticket prices are still increasing, however. Promoters reportedly cite the fees and expenses paid to orchestra members as a reason for the high cost. However, the paper says that, according to industry officials, the sharp increase in prices is because performances are becoming a popular form of corporate entertainment for workers and clients alike. An orchestra seat, however expensive, is still cheaper than buying a client a lavish dinner and expensive drinks.

The paper quotes Yu Gyeong-suk of Ticket Link, an online ticket sales company, as saying, "When young people enjoy classical music, the layer of fans thickens, but now, in most cases, only rich people in their 40s and 50s are purchasing tickets, as gifts."