Talent leader: Park guiding his students during a class at Hanlim Arts School in Seoul. — South Korean Tourism, Arts, and Culture Ministry
THE man with the slanted, brimmed fisherman’s hat brings to mind the golden age of New Jack Swing in the 1990s. The slow beat playing in the background has your shoulders swaying instinctively. Park Min Jun tips his hat as he welcomes a group of international journalists into his studio at Hanlim Arts High School in Seoul, South Korea.
As dean of the dance department – or “dean of swag”, as his students call him – Park guides some of South Korea’s most talented dancers. One student, mastering the art of “popping”, moves with smooth confidence, drawing loud applause from onlookers.
