UMass Korean Calligraphy Showcase 2026

Date: Wednesday, March 4

Location: Herter Hall 301

Time: 3:00-5:00 PM

• 3:00-3:30: Exhibition
• 3:30-4:00: Participant Sharing
• 4:00-5:00: Audience Voting & Reception

Open to students, faculty, and staff members from all Five Colleges campuses who are passionate about Hangeul and the Korean language.

The Korean Calligraphy Showcase Theme is: "Language, Expression, & Freedom - Honoring the Spirit of the March 1st Movement through Language"

This year’s Korean Calligraphy Showcase invites participants to explore the themes of language, expression, and freedom through Korean handwriting.

Participants are welcome to write meaningful Korean texts such as:

• Excerpts from the Declaration of Independence of the March 1st Movement
• Quotes by Korean independence activists (e.g., 유관순, 안중근, 김구, 도산 안창호 등)
• Lines from poems written by independence poets (e.g., 윤동주, 이육사, 한용운 등)
• Other phrases that reflect the spirit of freedom, voice, and self-expression

Through this event, we hope to offer an opportunity to learn about the history, significance, and meaning of Korea’s independence movement, while engaging creatively with the Korean language.

You may also choose texts that are not directly related to the March 1st Movement, as long as they reflect the theme of language, expression, and freedom. For example, lyrics from contemporary Korean music that express ideas of freedom, identity, or voice are welcome (e.g., “Answer : Love Myself,” “Epiphany” by BTS, “My My” by SEVENTEEN, and “My Pace” by Stray Kids, etc.). 
 

Paper size: Letter (8.5” x 11”)

Ink: Any color may be used.

Tool: Any type of pen or brush is allowed.

Submission Method:

• Submit your original handwritten work at the drop off location.
• Include a separate sheet with your name, affiliation, a brief description of the source of your text and the reason for your choice, in Korean and/or English.
• Drop off Location: Mailbox at Herter Hall 530

Deadline: Friday, February 27, by noon.

All participants must present their work during the event and give a brief talk (3–5 minutes) about the source of their text and the reason for their choice. The presentation may be in either Korean or English. 

Any inquiries please contact: 

Professor Jee Hyun Lee - @email