How is pansori performed by a singer and a drummer?

Pansori is a traditional Korean narrative genre performed by a singer-narrator, known as a kwangdae, and a drummer, called a kosu.1

The performance is a dramatic collaboration characterized by the following elements:

• Vocalist's Role: The singer tells an epic story using a combination of chang (song), aniri (spoken narration and dialogue), and ballim (dramatic gestures), often utilizing a fan to enhance the storytelling.21
• Drummer's Role: The drummer provides the rhythmic foundation for the performance using a buk (a double-headed barrel drum). Beyond maintaining the beat, the drummer offers vocal interjections known as ch’uimsae to encourage the singer and engage the audience.231
• Interaction: A significant amount of improvised interaction occurs between the two performers throughout the show, creating a dynamic exchange as the narrative unfolds.2

Originally performed in open spaces like markets and public squares, this genre has evolved into a sophisticated form of theatrical entertainment that balances music, drama, and rhythmic precision.213