BEMIDJI — Just a short trek from Turtle River Lake lies the newest addition to the a dedicated space for Sup sogui Hosu, which means “Lakeside Village” in Korean. Though the Korean Language Village has operated since 1999, the program has split the summer season with other language village sites for its youth camps. Following a $5 million donation by Korean philanthropist and luxury handbag producer Kenny Park in 2018, the village’s first phase of construction could commence and was commemorated with a day of activities and recognition on Saturday.
“Everyone in this room has played a significant role in establishing our Korean Language Village on the shores of Turtle River Lake,” CLV Executive Director Mary Maus Kosir said during the site’s dedication ceremony. “We take special note of the parents who entrusted the care of their children in our hands to ensure that they have a first-rate experience here in this immersion camp.” The Korean Language Village opened earlier this month for its first campers who were able to showcase their skills by performing Korean songs and immersing themselves through other activities of the day.
Upon arrival, the village provided guests with several opportunities to experience authentic Korean culture. Attendees could sign up for various classes to learn calligraphy, Tae Kwon Do, K-pop dance, drumming and paper-folding among others. Korean cuisine was spotted throughout the village including a chicken dish prepared by actor R.