From lifelong K-Pop fans, to those with personal ties to South Korea, a growing community is connecting through Korean culture.
At an event to celebrate Korean culture, newcomers and longtime fans came together amid music, spice, and sesame-filled aromas, each sharing how their interest began – and why it continues to grow.
Eve Hannon has been a fan of K-Pop for more than a decade – long before it became widely recognised.
“When I was younger, nobody really knew what it was outside of South Korea,” she said. “Now it’s everywhere.”
What often begins with music has deepened into a wider passion, inspiring many to learn the language and travel abroad.
“It’s important to share culture from other countries and meeting people who want to learn together is a great thing for community,” she said.
She recently travelled to South Korea with her sister on a trip they feel has only furthered their interest in the culture, language and history.
“It’s completely different to anything we’ve seen here. I came away so excited to learn more.
“When I saw there was going to be noraebang (karaoke) here, I got so excited”, added Aimee Hannon. “I can’t wait – it reminds me of being right back in Seoul.”
