Honored for 28 Years of Dedication to Korean Language Education and Cultural Preservation

28년간 한국어 교육과 한국 문화 보급에 헌신한 공로 인정

On October 9, 2026, Principal Soojin Cho, Director and Principal of Hangook Heritage Education Academy, was honored with the 2026 Cultural Merit Medal (문화포장) from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Republic of Korea.

The prestigious national award was presented during the 580th Hangeul Day Celebration at the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts in Seoul, Korea, recognizing her outstanding contributions to Korean language education and the promotion of Korean culture.

This year’s celebration was especially meaningful, marking both the 580th anniversary of the proclamation of Hangeul and the 100th anniversary of Hangeul Day.

For the past 28 years, Principal Cho has devoted herself to Korean language and cultural education, serving as a teacher, vice principal, principal, regional association board member, and president.

Reflecting on this meaningful recognition, Principal Cho shared:

“I am deeply honored and grateful to receive this prestigious national award, especially during such a historic celebration of Hangeul.

This honor is not mine alone. It reflects the dedication, encouragement, and unwavering support of fellow educators, association leaders, parents, and community members who have walked alongside me throughout this journey.

My greatest reward has always been watching students learn the Korean language, embrace Korean culture, and develop pride in their Korean heritage.

I sincerely share this honor with everyone who has supported and encouraged me over the years. I remain committed to inspiring future generations through Korean language and cultural education.”

This national recognition celebrates Principal Cho’s 28 years of dedication and her continued commitment to preserving and promoting Korean language, culture, and heritage for future generations.

한국 헤리티지 아카데미 조수진 교장(디렉터)이 2026년 10월 9일 서울 세종문화회관에서 열린 제580돌 한글날 경축식에서 대한민국 문화체육관광부의 한글발전유공 문화포장을 수상하는 영예를 안았습니다.

이번 수상은 지난 28년간 한국학교 교사, 교감, 교장 및 지역협의회 임원과 회장으로 활동하며 한국어 교육과 한국 문화 보급에 헌신해 온 공로를 인정받은 것입니다.

조수진 교장은 “뜻깊은 해에 큰 상을 받게 되어 한국어 교육자로서 매우 영광스럽고 감사하게 생각합니다. 이번 수상은 오랜 시간 함께해 주신 동료 교사들과 협의회 임원들, 학부모님들과 지역사회의 따뜻한 협력과 응원이 있었기에 가능했습니다. 이 영광을 모든 분들과 함께 나누고 싶습니다”라고 소감을 전했습니다.

앞으로도 차세대들이 한국어와 한국 문화를 배우며 자신의 뿌리와 정체성에 자긍심을 가질 수 있도록 교육에 힘쓸 뜻을 밝혔습니다.