Support for Korean Youth Aging Out of Care

2019 marked new beginnings for Minyeal and Byung Kyung, two young adults who grew up at Samsungwon Orphanage. They just completed their first semester at a Divinity school in Daegu, both studying Applied Music. As KKOOM College Scholars, we asked them to answer a few questions towards the end of their semester to get a better understanding of their progress. You’ll see below their answers which were translated to English. 

MINYEAL 

1. "Have you been able to achieve your goal yet from the beginning of the semester?"

• My goal at the beginning of the semester was to be friendly with people who do their best in their jobs, so to surround myself with a positive community. Thanks to the dream group, I was able to accomplish the goal and I am so thankful that I am attending school without difficulty.

2. "What is your favorite thing about this semester?"

• The best thing is that there is an age difference with other students and I was worried if I could make good friends. Fortunately, all the students know me well, we greet each other, and have fun.

3. "How do you spend your free time?"

• In my spare time, I study music theory and lead worship at a local church. 

4. "What is your favorite class and why?"

• This semester, the subject of playing method was the best. In front of the whole school, I sang "Amor Dei" with the voice God gave me. I am grateful I had this singing opportunity and it was a memorable experience.

5. "Do you have anything you would like to say to your KKOOM supporters who provide the scholarship?"

• Thank you very much to each one of the Dream supporters. I do not know you, but I will pray for you, and pay it forward as I achieve my goals. Thank you again.

BYUNG KYUNG 

1. "What is your favorite thing about spring semester?"

• It was nice to be able to study something I am passionate about and walk around campus freely during the semester. 

2. "How do you spend your free time?"

• I spend time preparing my assignments every day.

3. "What is your favorite class and why?"

• I took one of my major courses for my Applied Music degree. It was good that I could get guidance in my field professionally.

4.  "How has the scholarship helped you this semester?"

• I was able to use it appropriately to buy textbooks and supplies for my classes; it was a lot of help.

5. "Do you have anything you would like to say to your KKOOM supporters who provide the scholarship?"

• Thank you for your generous sponsorship. I am still receiving the sponsorship now, but I hope to support myself financially in the future. Thank you. I pray for those who support me.

Gratefulness exudes out of each of these individuals, in everything they say and do. They always lend a helping hand, like being photographers for our Children’s Day Luncheon KKOOM hosted in May. The special occasion was for 80 children to feel extra love at Aemangwon Children’s Home who have physical or cognitive challenges. Minyeal is always driving the local church van, to pick up house mothers, pastors, or the younger children at Samsungwon so they can attend Sunday church services. 

Minyeal and Byung Kyung find blessings in the everyday moments. Thank you for being a blessing to these young men to pursue their dreams as they attend college to get a higher education. You help them get one step closer to their goals because of one thing - your belief in them. We are grateful for your continued support as you encourage Minyeal and Byung Kyung to dream bigger through your generosity. 

With gratitude, 

-Grace Lee, Chief Administrator