The Korean Cultural Center of Chicago (KCCoC) successfully held its 15th Annual Benefit Gala at BISCO Hall. The gala, held under the theme “Leap Forward,” opened with a powerful Dae Buk performance by musician Deokhwan Kim.

The event was attended by over 250 distinguished guests and supporters. Celebration performances included Hwang Byungki’s ‘Chucheonsa’ performed by Joomi Park (Sori, traditional Korean vocal) and Hyunchae Kim (Gayageum, Korean zither), as well as a mini musical by students from Fremd High School. A special performance by KCCoC Board Member Won Cho added particular significance to the program.

The program continued with a short film showcasing the KCCoC’s 2025 activities and visitor impressions, followed by Executive Director Young Jin Kim’s presentation of plans for 2026, and reflections from Claire Oh, a founding member of the Junior Ambassador. After dinner, funds raised through the paddle fundraising activity will be used to support enriched programming and the sustainable operation of the KCCoC.