Korean Parade

Hwarang members marched in the 50th Annual Korea Times Korean Parade on Saturday, Oct. 14 in a miles-long stretch down Olympic Boulevard, representing the Hwarang Youth Foundation to the Los Angeles community with poise and pride.

With the renowned Nanta team leading the way, followed by Summit President Madison Park and Vice President Claire Dokko, then followed by Hwarang members holding flags of Hwarang, the Republic of Korea, and America, they marched with pride. Though the journey was especially long and fatiguing under the California sun, Hwarang persevered through.

As they shouted Hwarang’s motto: “Today’s Hwarang, Tomorrow’s Leaders,” members reminded the community, and re-instilled in themselves the organization’s principal goal and purpose: to wholeheartedly serve one’s community, and in doing so, develop skills to become its future leader.

Audience members gathered around, filmed, and clapped along to the rhythm as the Hwarang Nanta team performed their signature ‘Arirang’ at a brief stop on an intersection. The beat of Korean heritage, blended with the awe and enjoyment from the crowd, created a pleasant harmony for all in attendance: both performers and those watching.

Participating in the parade evoked a sense of pride and identity not only as a member of the Hwarang, but as a member of the Korean American community for those who participated. “The parade allows us to showcase Korean culture…it’s a great opportunity to put ourselves out there as Hwarang,” says Elysia Kim, treasurer of Hwarang’s Sunnyridge chapter.