Homer Hulbert's Hometown in Vermont to Erect Monument and Bust

A memorial service for Homer Hulbert, a pivotal figure in early Korean-American relations, was held on August 27, 2026, at the 100th Anniversary Memorial Hall of the Missionary Memorial Cemetery in Yanghwajin, Seoul. The event commemorated the 77th anniversary of his passing.

During the service, Kim Dong-jin, president of the Hulbert Memorial Project, emphasized Hulbert's legacy not just as a benefactor to the Korean people but as a global symbol of human dignity who practiced true humanity across races and nations. U.S. Ambassador to Korea, Michele Steel, in a speech read by Sonia Kim, highlighted Hulbert's belief in Korea's future, stating, "Joseon will surely blossom." Steel noted that Korea's current achievements and global role are a testament to his faith.

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Dr. Hulbert is not merely a benefactor to the Korean people. Let us become a nation that does not forget his grace, by elevating him as a symbol of 'human dignity' that the world remembers, who truly practiced humanity beyond race and nation.

To further honor his contributions, a monument and bust will be unveiled in New Haven, Vermont, Hulbert's hometown, on October 3, 2026, coinciding with Korea's National Foundation Day. The ceremony is expected to be attended by Vermont officials, New Haven citizens, and Korean-Americans, with students from the U.S. performing "Arirang," which Hulbert first transcribed in 1896.

The Hulbert Memorial Project is also organizing a special exhibition titled "Hulbert Captures Joseon - A Photo Exhibition" from August 28 to the end of November at the Hulbert Studio in Jongno-gu, Seoul. This exhibition will showcase approximately 100 rare photographs taken by Hulbert across the Korean peninsula during the Joseon Dynasty and Korean Empire periods, alongside personal photos. The year 2026 holds particular significance as it marks the 140th anniversary of Hulbert's arrival in Korea.

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Hulbert, who contributed to laying the earliest foundations of Korea-U.S. relations, believed in Korea's potential and future, saying 'Joseon will surely blossom.' Today, seeing Korea's remarkable achievements and its important role on the world stage, we can confirm how faithfully his belief has been realized.