2024 STANFORD WHITE PLAZA KOREAN CULTURAL PERFORMANCE

Hansamo performed on the White Plaza main stage at Stanford on March 10th. It was the second Korean Cultural Performance event organized by the Stanford Korean Student Association (Stanford KSA). Stanford KSA is an undergraduate Korean-interest student organization at Stanford University sharing Korean culture, history, and friendship. So this performance unified students from both groups into one cohesive event.

The first part of the event, Hansamo featured performances of Sogeum flutes, Nanta, Samgomu, and Pangut in succession. The audience was enthralled as they transitioned from the clear and beautiful melodies of Sogeum flutes to the dynamic energy of Nanta, the softly but sharply synchronized Samgomu, and finally the lively Pangut that engaged the audience as they actively participated in the Buna spinning. Some of the audience were amazed and even speechless when they heard that the performers were middle and high school students.

After the performance, Hansamo students enjoyed Kimbap and Tteokbokki provided by KSA, followed by the second part of the event featuring a traditional Korean instrument workshop and mentoring session by KSA students. Hansamo student leaders introduced and taught Kkwaenggwari, Janggu, Buk, Jing, Samgomu, Sogeum flute, and Taepyeongso. Then, KSA students played them. Both the first-time players from KSA and the observing students from Hansamo had a delightful time. The students then divided into four groups to have a mentoring time about high school and university life. They had serious discussions but with continuous laughter.

It was deeply meaningful and appreciated to have an opportunity where we could share Korean culture, and mutually support and engage with one another.