I am Kim Joowon, Artistic Director of Korean National Ballet.

It is a great honor to take on the important responsibility of serving as Artistic Director of Korean National Ballet, one of Korea' s leading national arts organizations.
As I step into this role, my heart is filled with profound gratitude and a sense of responsibility that is even greater than my excitement.

Korean National Ballet as we know it today stands on a legacy built through the dedication and passion of countless artists
and the unwavering love and support of audiences over the years.

I feel deeply privileged to build on that history and tradition and to help lead Korean National Ballet into its next chapter.
At the same time, I am keenly aware of the responsibility that comes with that privilege.

Throughout my years as a dancer, I have always believed in the power of art. Ballet, to me, belongs not only on the stage.
It has the power to connect one heart to another, to offer solace deeper than words, and to help us see the world we live in with a renewed sense of beauty.

As we look ahead,
Korean National Ballet will cherish the history that has brought us this far while developing an artistic identity and a distinctive repertoire that are uniquely our own.

Through bold new creations and diverse artistic explorations, we will remain in tune with our times. By engaging with exceptional artists from around the world,
we will share the beauty and possibilities of Korean ballet with audiences far beyond our borders.

I hope that this beauty will not be confined to certain stages or audiences.

We will build bridges between Seoul and communities throughout Korea, between public and private arts organizations,
and between artists and audiences, so that ballet can become more familiar presence in the everyday lives of people across the country.

For children and young people, I hope Korean National Ballet will be a place where new dreams can begin.
And for those stepping into the world of ballet for the first time, I hope it will offer the kind of excitement that brings them back to the theater.

Most important of all, I believe, are the people at the heart of this journey.

I hope to nurture a thriving artistic community where dancers who pour their whole selves into every moment on stage,
and the artists and staff who devote themselves to bringing each production to life, can respect one another, dream without limits, and grow together.

We will honor our traditions without being afraid to create something new.
And as we reach out to the world, we will stay true to our roots and to who we are.

I hope Korean ballet will embrace the world,
while Korean National Ballet reaches every corner of the country.

Just as one dancer’s performance can stay with someone long after the curtain falls,
I hope Korean National Ballet will remain in the lives of our audiences
as a source of beautiful memories and lasting strength.

With that vision in mind,
I will move forward, step by step, alongside everyone in the company,
shaping a new chapter for Korean National Ballet that we can proudly pass on to the next generation.

I sincerely hope we can count on your continued warmth and support.

Thank you.