Three Korean Dancers Spotlighted by World-Class ABT... "Possessing Technique, Creativity, and Kindness"

Dong-A Ilbo is proud to highlight the remarkable achievements of three young South Korean dancers who have captured the attention of the world-renowned American Ballet Theatre (ABT) Studio Company. This recognition is not just a personal triumph for Park Geon-hee, Park Soo-ha, and Park Yoon-jae, but a significant moment for the advancement of Korean ballet on the global stage.

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As a dancer, professionalism and technique are important, but so are strong will, creativity, and individuality. We are always looking for dancers with kindness off-stage, and these three dancers possess all of these qualities.

Artistic Director Sasha Radetsky's praise for the dancers – emphasizing their professionalism, technique, strong will, creativity, individuality, and even their kindness off-stage – speaks volumes. The ABT Studio Company, a crucial incubator for future ABT stars, selects only a handful of elite dancers each year from around the world. For three Koreans to be chosen is an extraordinary accomplishment, underscoring the depth of talent nurtured within South Korea.

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I learned a lot by watching the ABT dancers in the practice room, seeing how they sometimes make mistakes and how they deal with them.

Their individual successes, such as Park Yoon-jae's historic win at the Prix de Lausanne and Park Geon-hee's Grand Prix at the Youth America Grand Prix, are testaments to their dedication and the rigorous training they have received. Park Soo-ha's upcoming debut with the main ABT company further solidifies their rising international status.

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I experienced various genres of dance and found my own strengths while discovering my individuality.

From a Korean perspective, this story is particularly inspiring. It showcases how Korean artists are not only mastering the technical demands of classical ballet but are also embracing contemporary styles and developing unique artistic voices. The dancers' own reflections on learning from ABT's principal dancers and embracing imperfection, as advised by Radetsky, offer valuable insights into the mindset required for artistic growth. Their upcoming performances in Seoul promise a captivating display of youthful energy and artistic potential, resonating deeply with a nation that values artistic excellence and cultural achievement.

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In my student days, I thought I always had to be perfect on stage and couldn't make mistakes, but thanks to Director Radetsky's advice to 'be kind to yourself,' I've shed some of that perfectionism and am maturing.