Korean Community to Honor the Legacy of Late Singer-Songwriter Kim Min-Ki with Special Tribute Concert
Lansdale, PA — The Korean community in Lansdale will come together on August 25 at 5 PM at Lansdale United Methodist Church to pay tribute to the late Kim Min-Ki, a revered singer-songwriter whose music has been a powerful voice for the marginalized and a symbol of resistance against oppression. This special concert, organized by the local community, aims to celebrate Kim Min-Ki’s enduring legacy through a series of heartfelt performances.
Kim Min-Ki, who passed away after a storied career that spanned decades, is best remembered for his songs like “Morning Dew” (아침이슬) and “Evergreen” (상록수), which have become anthems of hope and resilience for many. His work, often reflective of the socio-political struggles of his time, continues to inspire generations both in Korea and abroad.
The concert will feature performances by “The Stump” (그루터기), a well-known Korean community band, along with other community members who wish to honor Kim Min-Ki by singing his songs. The organizers hope to create an intimate atmosphere, bridging the distance between the stage and the audience, as everyone joins together to sing the beloved songs that have become part of the community’s cultural fabric.
Kim Min-Ki’s life was a testament to the power of art as a tool for social change. From his early days as a student at Seoul National University, where he abandoned his studies in painting to pursue music, to his later years as a theater director and founder of the small theater Hakchon in Daehangno, Kim’s work was always closely linked with the struggles of the common people.
Despite facing constant repression from the authoritarian government of the time—his songs were banned, and he was even detained—Kim continued to create and inspire. His legacy is not only in the music he created but also in the many artists he mentored and the cultural movements he helped shape.
This concert is not just a tribute to Kim Min-Ki but also a celebration of the spirit of resistance and hope that his music embodies. The organizers invite all members of the community to join them in this celebration of a life that was lived with purpose and passion.
For more information about the event, you can contact the organizers at 215-220-9963, email info@wooricenterpa.org, or call 484-557-0531.