Singer Yun Jung-soo has become the first Korean artist to be granted an exceptional talent visa by the U.K.

Jung, who previously studied and worked in the U.K., has been granted the visa because of his contribution to the arts and potential to become one of the world’s greatest tenors.

His roles in Britain for 2012 will include Rinuccio in Gianni Schicchi for Opera Holland Park, the role of Rimbaud in Robert le Diable for the Royal Opera at Covent Garden and the eponymous role of Faust for Opera North. The tenor also plans to hold a solo recital at Wigmore Hall and concert tours throughout Europe.

Yun said, “I am very glad and privileged to be the first Korean artist to receive the Exceptional Talent Visa. As I perform in major British operas, I will strive to become an inspiration for many young Korean and foreign artists who wish to shine on the stage in the U.K.”

Yun won the Montserrat Caballe International Singing Competition in 2011 the Richard Tauber Prize in 2010 and the Stuart Burrows International Voice Award in 2010.

He has performed for Prince Charles at St. James’ Palace.British Ambassador Scott Wightman said: “I believe Yun Jung-soo will be a beacon of hope to other exceptional Korean talents who wish for the opportunity to shine internationally.

“Living and working in the U.K. will help exceptionally talented individuals to achieve their full potential and equally provide an important contribution to British culture and the fostering of our own talents.”

The U.K. Border Agency introduced exceptional talent visas in August 2011 to encourage world leaders, or those showing promise to become world leaders, in the fields of science, humanities, engineering and the arts, to live and work in the U.K. to help them realize their full potential whilst contributing to British society.

By Kirsty Taylor (kirstyt@heraldcorp.com)