Who is Vittoria Yeo?
I am an opera singer, born and raised in Korea. I fell in love with Italian opera and moved to Italy to study singing. I now live in Italy and work as a soprano. I love being on stage – singing, acting, and sharing emotions through music.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I’ve never really imagined a completely different version of myself. Even if I weren’t an opera singer, I believe I would still be living with music. Being able to live through singing is a great happiness and something I feel grateful for.
My life has been a continuous journey of effort toward singing and to my dream. There have been many sacrifices along the way but singing encourages me to keep learning, reflecting on myself, and finding the strength to grow and move forward.
Who inspires you and why?
I am inspired by all people who genuinely love themselves and live their lives with sincerity and dedication. They are not easily swayed by external expectations or speed but instead remain honest with themselves and quietly stay true to their own path.
In particular, I am deeply inspired by those who choose depth over haste, who live with quiet integrity and who continue to grow even after facing difficulties. Their way of living constantly reminds me, not only as an artist but also as a human being, of what it means to live with intention and authenticity.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
The world is changing rapidly and I believe people living within that change need stability and empathy more than ever. I see music as a universal language – one that goes beyond borders and alphabets – and as a gentle, compassionate way of communicating emotion.
Through music, I hope people can experience richer emotions and greater happiness in their lives. As I always have, I want to continue singing with sincerity. I believe that sincerity is carried through my voice and reaches people through music.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Home. Because my profession involves constant travel, the most perfect holiday for me is staying at home – cooking food I love, resting comfortably, and simply slowing down.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Italy is a truly beautiful country. Nature is stunning, but its food culture is especially rich. Each region has its own ingredients, traditions, and identity. I like taking friends to small, non-touristy restaurants, sharing meals and coffee, and observing everyday local life together. It’s a simple but meaningful way to experience a place.
What are you currently reading?
Itinerario Musicale Culturale Italiano – It’s a book that introduces musicians from different regions of Italy. Many of them once lived brilliant and remarkable lives but are now almost forgotten. I discovered that a musician I admire was born and lived in Piacenza, the small city in northern Italy where I now live. Imagining that he once walked the same streets I walk today feels like travelling through time.
What are you currently listening to?
My musical tastes are always evolving. Recently, I’ve been listening mainly to recordings of operas I am currently studying, but I also enjoy symphonic and instrumental music. I love comparing how different performers interpret the same piece. One composition can feel like many different works when heard through different perspectives.
Happiness is?
Time spent laughing face to face with the people I love.
What does the future hold for you?
I want to continue growing without losing curiosity or humility. I also want to dedicate more time and care to my health. If I can keep singing on stage while sharing meaningful moments with my family and friends, that is the future I hope for.
Vittoria Yeo will make her OA debut as Cio-Cio-San (7 February – 7 March) in Opera Australia’s production of Madama Butterfly – which is currently playing in the Joan Sutherland Theatre – Sydney Opera House until 25 March 2026. For more information, visit: www.opera.org.au for details.
Image: Vittoria Yeo (supplied)