For the U.S. military community in Pyeongtaek, a local university is fostering cultural connections through free Korean art classes for military spouses and children.

At Hangyeong National University’s Pyeongtaek campus, military spouses can learn Minhwa, a traditional Korean folk painting style, and kids can take 3D printing classes.

Under the direction of Professor Jeanny Lim, the classes are designed to teach students new skills and also create a bridge between the local community and the largest military community in Korea.

“These programs are not for short-term experiences,” Lim said. “Each student will ultimately be cultural ambassadors who can foster mutual understanding between the two communities.”

Students get access to professional facilities, high-quality resources and support from trained university students. More importantly, the courses sponsored by the Ministry of Education in Korea provide a safe and reliable learning environment from an accredited university.

The campus is about nine kilometers from Osan Air Base and 15 kilometers from Camp Humphreys, making it easily accessible for the base community. Anyone who is interested in participating in the program can inquire by phone or email.

• Location: 5-3 Jangan-dong, Pyeongtaek-si, Gyeonggi-do (Hankyeong National University Pyeongtaek Campus), Naver Map

• Eligible participants: Anyone from U.S. military community in Pyeongtaek

• Class schedule: 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. on Wednesdays

• Inquire: email - uddesign@hknu.ac.kr or text at 010-2764-1438

*This article was written at the request of the Pyeongtaek SOFA Support Center. (The Pyeongtaek SOFA Support Center, operated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, serves as a bridge connecting the local community with the U.S. military community in Pyeongtaek.)

Korean traditional painting class (Minhwa)

Minhwa is a folk painting form depicting the lives of commoners and natural elements like flowers, butterflies and tigers dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. The art form employs techniques and media like traditional hanji paper, natural pigments and animal hair paintbrushes. Each brushstroke connects students with the joy, beauty and traditions of historical Korea while allowing them to express their own creativity.

Sharon Galyon, a Minhwa student from Osan Air Base, said the class was a “dream come true” for her and a great opportunity to learn about Korean art while interacting with locals.

“Most art programs only offered one-day sessions or short-term classes,” Galyon said. “This Minhwa class has allowed me to attend for nearly a year, giving me the time to fully immerse myself in the beauty of traditional Korean art.”

The class is led by Eunha Park, a professional Minhwa artist, and does not require prior art experience. Students are carefully guided to create their own masterpieces in a supportive group setting. Later, they even have opportunities to showcase their work during planned exhibits open to the public.

Art exhibit at Osan AB

Earlier this year, more than 20 pieces of students’ art were displayed through a temporary exhibit at Osan Air Base. The exhibit had its opening at the Osan Air Base Officer’s Club on March 6, then the pieces were displayed until March 12 at the base library.

The exhibition attracted members of the military community seeking to appreciate the work of the Minhwa artists.

At the opening, Shannon Ng, a student representative, expressed gratitude for both Lim and Park’s commitment to military spouses and children. Ng said the class helped instill a deeper connection to Korean traditions and art, while also cultivating friendships.

3D printing class

The university’s 3D course gives children the opportunity to design and create accessories or cups using cutting-edge printing technology. Students get to take their creations home, which in turn can be meaningful souvenirs of their time spent in Korea.

For Ezra Latterell, a student from Osan Air Base, the class has meant learning new skills from Professor Giwon Kim to create more 3D-printed objects.

“I usually build a paper elevator or a LEGO city at home, and now I’m learning new skills to make more fun stuff through this class,” Latterell said. “A cat is the first thing I made!”

Children are encouraged to bring any questions or ideas back to the classroom. By blending technical education with opportunities to connect with the local community, the program provides valuable learning experiences for participants from U.S. military bases in Pyeongtaek.

Camp Humphreys

Osan Air Base