Prague: Pianist Son Se-hyeok won first prize in the piano category at the Prague Spring International Music Competition this week, organizers said Friday. The 18-year-old triumphed over 41 other pianists in the finals in Prague on Thursday, showcasing his exceptional talent on an international stage.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Chinese pianists Zhiquan Wang and Xuehong Chen secured second and third places, respectively. Son previously gained attention after making his debut through the Kumho Prodigy Concert in 2021, and he further cemented his reputation by winning the grand prize in the Henle Piano Competition that same year.

The Prague Spring International Music Competition, established in 1947, is an annual event featuring two instrumental categories. This year's competition highlighted the piano and flute categories. Notably, South Korean pianist Lee Dong-ha had previously won first prize in 2021, the last occasion the piano category was contested.