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Mihae Kim's avatar

When I was a teenager, I often listened to those American oldies and sang along with my siblings. Koreans are famous for singing along with the singer at concerts. When we sing together, it is incredibly fascinating. You mentioned the sense of unity when you first attended a concert. I instantly understood what you described and was touched. Thank you.

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Jenna Lee Kim's avatar

Thank you, MinHae! I love singing with Koreans! This weekend, friends and family members of my Appa and his wife sang and danced in the main room of his country home in Haenam with the noraebang machine. It's so incredibly different than the family gatherings I'm used to in the USA. I love being on my feet and singing along. I'm so happy to know it's something that's "very Korean." Thank you for these insights; they are invaluable to me... and for reading and for your support <3

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Jennifer Hiltebeitel's avatar

You had me at Musikfest in Bethlehem and left me longing to sit by the ocean and listen to live music! I love how music expanded your world as you grew up and is now connecting you with others on an island in Korea. XO

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Jenna Lee Kim's avatar

Yes! Such a well-known and nostalgic tradition in our Eastern Pennsylvania! I'm so glad this one resonated with you :-)

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Marabella Enterprises's avatar

I so relate to this post. For me, music was a deep connection in an isolated world. It awakened emotions of joy and passion that were often restrained by sadness and isolation. And, it gave me the beautiful and enduring connection with my adoptive dad, a talented pianist and composer, much in the same way sports connects other dad's and sons. Much later in life I found Thank You for the Music by ABBA, whose lyrics summed up my love affair. Some include: who can live without it, I ask in all honesty, What would life be? Without a song or a dance what are we? So I say thank you for the music for giving it to me!

Thank you for the music, Jenna!

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Jenna Lee Kim's avatar

Oh, friend! I love that your dad gave you the gift of music along with all of the other gifts he gave you! I wonder what instruments you play? Thanks for reading. I'm so happy this one resonated with you

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