‘K-pop Academy’ to open at Korean cultural centers abroad

Korean cultural centers overseas will soon offer K-pop courses for foreigners, the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism said.

These courses will take place under the “K-pop Academy,” which aims to promote hallyu. The academies are scheduled to open at 20 Korean cultural centers in 18 countries, including China and the U.S.

The first academy opened at the Korean Cultural Center in Shanghai on Tuesday.

Professors from Sejong University and Howon University will give vocal and dance lessons at the overseas cultural centers over the next eight months. Among those teaching at the K-pop Academy is Shin Yeon-ah, a former member of R&B and soul female quartet Big Mama, which disbanded in 2012. She will give vocal lessons at the Korean Cultural Center in Los Angeles.

Choi Jong-hoan, a first-generation B-boy in Korea as well as a former dance trainer in JYP Entertainment, will contribute to the dance courses.

The K-pop Academy will also provide participants with the chance to watch Korean TV series and films, taste Korean food and try out the latest trends in Korean makeup and nail art.

“Overseas hallyu fans will have a chance to learn their favorite K-pop songs and dances from Korea’s top-level teaching staff at the K-pop Academy,” Park Young-goog, chief of the Korean Culture and Information Service affiliated with the culture ministry, said in a press release.

The content of the courses will be adapted to each country.  

By Jung Eun-jin (jej2403@heraldcorp.com)