Published September 30, 2024
BY ABBY COE
The Korean Culture Club participates in activities from dance to movies and cuisine with a goal of promoting Korean heritage on Carmel High School’s campus.
Sophomore co-presidents Jeane Kim and Colette Dampier aim to advance Korean culture recognition by exposing members to the diversity that CHS has to offer. They invite students of all backgrounds to participate, demonstrating the benefits of a fresh cultural perspective.
“The commitment just comes from whether you would be interested in doing it,” Kim explains. “You’re willing to come in and learn more about it.”
Carmel High School students Jeane Kim and Colette Dampier are excited to expand the participation of the Korean Culture Club. (photo by ABBY COE)
In addition to performing Korean dances at school rallies, the club plans on exchanging traditional Korean cuisine and watching Korean dramas such as “Hospital Playlist.”
“If Jeane brings something in, she’ll tell us what the food is,” Dampier explains.
Despite being student-run, adults are keen to contribute to the club too.
“Some of the parents have already expressed an interest in cooking traditional Korean food,” says Juan Gomez, faculty adviser of the Korean Culture Club.
Gomez appreciates the club’s interest in all things Korean and suggests that it is a way for members to travel to Korea without spending the time or the money.
“It does create a space, and I think that’s important,” he says.
While she is not Korean herself, Dampier is adamant about her role, saying, “…I just find [the culture] interesting, and I love to learn languages and learn about new cultures.”
If the club continues to grow, Kim suggests participating in certain cultural events for community service, completing worksheets for learning Korean or participating in a Korean festival.
“Our goal is to just have fun and learn,” Dampier affirms.
The Korean Culture Club meets every other Tuesday in Room 31 and is open to all students interested.
