A leisurely tempo is one of the general characteristics of Korean music. A beat can last as long as three seconds. The slow tempo imparts a distinctly calm, meditative character. Consequently, Western music tends to be active and progressive, Chong-ak, however, tends to be sedate and contemplative like a long breath. The subtle tone color can be attributed to the fact that Korean instruments are made of natural materials, In Korea, wind instruments tend to be made solely from wood and even stringed instruments have strings made of silk instead of wire.
Spontaneity is a characteristic feature of Korean traditional music.
Minsok-ak stimulates the emotions while encouraging extemporaneous forms of expression. The emotional aspect of the Korean character is more prominent than the rational. Korean musical pieces are usually linked together when performed. The absence of a hiatus between musical pieces is a reflection of the character of the Korean people. The tempo distribution of traditional Korean music is also unique.