Three Mason Korea students recently showcased Korean poetry and art songs at the K-Culture Talk event held at the Korean Cultural Center in Washington, D.C., which brought together nearly 200 attendees.
The event featured Seung Gyo Kim, a recent Mason Korea graduate and current graduate student in Conflict Analysis and Resolution at George Mason University’s Fairfax campus. Following his successful organization of the first Korean ArtPop Storytelling Workshop last fall at the Fairfax campus, Kim performed a Korean art song titled Child in Me.
“Through the sound and poetry of K-Art Songs, we’re able to share personal stories and create a meaningful connection that transcends language and culture,” said Seung Gyo Kim.
Suk In Claire Jung, a senior majoring in Conflict Analysis and Resolution, and Jiheon Sung, a Mason Korea Global Affairs alum and current staff member at the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Washington, D.C., presented recitations of classic Korean poetry.
The event was spearheaded by Dr. Mira Yang, adjunct applied faculty of voice at George Mason’s Dewberry School of Music, with the goal of bringing together Korean and Korean American communities. Non-Korean students also participated by performing Korean art songs at the event, which was held in collaboration with the Asian American Music Society.
“As a Korean American, I feel a strong connection to Mason Korea students and enjoy supporting them whenever I can,” said Yang, who also serves as president of the Asian American Music Society and on the Kennedy Center’s Community Advisory Board. “I often meet Mason Korea students in Fairfax to talk about their U.S. experience and offer career advice. I also enjoy promoting Korean songs and creating opportunities for Mason Korea students to engage in cultural programs like this one. It was very fun and successful.”
May 19, 2025