South Korean Pianist Becomes One-Handed Performer After Stroke

Lee Hun overcomes paralysis to play piano with just his left hand, preparing for first orchestral concerto performance.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 1:48am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a pianist's left hand gliding across the keys of a grand piano, the fingers and keys rendered in dramatic, high-contrast detail that captures the elegance and artistry of one-handed performance.The delicate, expressive movements of a pianist's hand navigating the piano keys with singular focus and determination.Cincinnati Today

In 2012, South Korean pianist Lee Hun suffered a major stroke that left him with right-sided paralysis. After being told about the large repertoire of piano pieces written for the left hand alone, Lee dedicated himself to mastering one-handed piano performance. He has since given recitals, appeared on TV, and is now preparing to perform Ravel's demanding 'Piano Concerto for the Left Hand' with an orchestra at an international music festival.

Why it matters

Lee's story highlights the resilience and determination of artists who overcome major physical setbacks. His journey from despair to becoming South Korea's only known professional left-hand-only pianist inspires others facing seemingly insurmountable challenges. Lee's upcoming orchestral debut also shines a light on the rich repertoire of one-handed piano music, which was pioneered by Austrian pianist Paul Wittgenstein after he lost his right arm in World War I.

The details

After his 2012 stroke left him paralyzed on his right side, Lee initially worried if he would even be able to walk again, let alone play piano. It was only after a mentor told him about the extensive repertoire of left-hand-only piano pieces that Lee rekindled his passion for the instrument. Through exhaustive practice, he made a formal debut as a one-handed pianist in 2016 and has since given numerous recitals. On May 2, Lee will perform the notoriously difficult Ravel 'Piano Concerto for the Left Hand' with a festival orchestra, fulfilling a long-held dream.

  • In August 2012, Lee suffered a major stroke that left him paralyzed on his right side.
  • In 2013, Lee's former piano teacher encouraged him to play the piano again, sparking his return to the instrument.
  • In 2016, Lee made his formal debut as a one-handed pianist, performing works by Saint-Saëns and 'Amazing Grace' with his teacher.
  • On November 2024, Lee was able to press a piano key with his right hand during a concert, raising hopes for a potential two-handed comeback.
  • On May 2, 2026, Lee will perform Ravel's 'Piano Concerto for the Left Hand' with a festival orchestra.

The players

Lee Hun

A 54-year-old South Korean pianist who suffered a major stroke in 2012 that left him paralyzed on his right side. He has since become South Korea's only known professional left-hand-only pianist, giving recitals and preparing to perform a concerto with an orchestra.

Chun Yung Hae

Lee's former piano teacher who encouraged him to return to the piano after his stroke, telling him about the extensive repertoire of left-hand-only piano pieces.

Paul Wittgenstein

An acclaimed Austrian pianist who is considered a pioneer in one-handed piano music after losing his right arm in World War I. He commissioned left-hand repertories from famous composers.

Koo Jaseong

Lee's doctor at St. Mary's Hospital, who says the prospects for Lee regaining the use of his right hand are dim, though he acknowledges there have been rare cases of miraculous recoveries.

Chung Eun-hyon

The head of Lee's agency, Tool Music, who is helping make Lee's dream of performing the Ravel concerto with an orchestra come true.

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What they’re saying

“After the stroke, I didn't even imagine playing the piano. I only thought about whether I could stand on my feet again.”

— Lee Hun, Pianist

“He is a pianist so he must play the piano. He was completely hopeless and in despair, so I tried to give him some hope. But I didn't expect him to play as well as this.”

— Chun Yung Hae, Lee's Former Piano Teacher

“He plays a sort of music that truly touches the heart of people and it's not about finger dexterity.”

— Lee Eungkwang, Head of Cultural Foundation

What’s next

On May 2, 2026, Lee Hun will perform Ravel's 'Piano Concerto for the Left Hand' with a festival orchestra at the annual Icheon Young-Artist International Music Festival in South Korea.

The takeaway

Lee Hun's inspiring journey from despair to becoming a renowned one-handed pianist demonstrates the power of resilience, determination, and the enduring passion for music. His upcoming orchestral debut will further showcase the rich repertoire of left-hand-only piano works and inspire others facing seemingly insurmountable physical challenges.