The annual Korean Night, hosted by the Korean Student Association of Kearney, gathered people from all backgrounds to experience Korean culture. Attendees had the chance to immerse themselves in Korean culture through food, performances, games and music.
The event was more than just a showcase of Korean culture. It also served as a way to express gratitude to the Kearney community.
“We wanted to give back to the community,” said Young Park, a graduate student in accounting and Korean Student Association of Kearney board member. “We appreciate how the community welcomes us and makes us a part of their culture and group. Now it’s our turn to return the favor, serving our food, showing our culture and sharing our gratitude.”
The Korean Student Association of Kearney came up with a television show theme for the night. The food, performances and activities were selected by different committees to ensure attendees could experience all aspects of the culture.
While many people often associate Korea with K-pop, Jashna Samuel, a senior majoring in biology and Korean Student Association of Kearney board member, said there’s much more to Korea.
“Most people think Korean food is only sweet or spicy and full of meat, with not a lot of vegetarian options,” Samuel said. “We offered two vegetarian dishes tonight. South Korea has a wide variety of flavors and foods beyond just kimchi and ramen.”
Park also said that the deeper cultural values often go unnoticed.
“Korean food is tasty, but Korean people are also very welcoming and eager to positively impact the community,” Park said. “We’re here not only for our own success but to grow together as a community.”
With anticipation and attendance growing each year, organizers hope that attendees walk away with a deeper understanding and appreciation for Korean culture and diversity within the community.
“I hope people had a great time and look forward to next year’s Korean Night,” Samuel said. “I hope everyone got a glimpse of Korean culture and left with a smile.”
For many attendees, this event was their first introduction to Korean culture.
“Knowing almost nothing about the culture going into it and getting to experience it and seeing the different areas of Korean culture was very cool,” said Caleb Munson, a junior majoring in psychobiology. “It is always fun trying new food, and I’ve never tried Korean food before, so I thought that would be cool to try, and it was very good. The performances were also very cool and entertaining to watch.”
Park, who is also a veteran, hopes the audience remembers the veteran they recognized that night. The Korean Student Association of Kearney commemorated their sacrifices and appreciation for the United States helping South Korea during the Korean War.
“I hope the audience remembers the veteran that we were able to recognize tonight,” Park said. “I also want them to know how fun Korean culture is and how fun it is to get to know people abroad. I think it’s a great opportunity for people of Kearney to experience Korean culture at the local level while enjoying an international event.”
