The Korea University Music Appreciation Center (KUMAC) offers a serene Classical Music Room located in Korea University (KU) Central Plaza room 120. Its primary objective is to provide KU students with an enriching experience of the cultural dimensions of classical music, given the absence of music colleges or majors at KU. Since its establishment in 1978, KUMAC has remained unwavering in its commitment to promoting and expanding the influence of classical music on campus. It serves as an ideal platform for students interested in music, fostering connections with like-minded individuals who share similar passions.

Ludwig van Beethoven once said, “Music can change the world.” Music has the power to inspire and evoke emotions within its listeners, adding vibrancy to otherwise mundane lives and spreading joy and happiness. Students can discover pure musical joy at the Classical Music Room managed by KUMAC. It warmly welcomes everyone from Monday to Friday, between 12 P.M. to 5 P.M., providing an accessible source of delight. For those burdened by the weight of academic studies and work, KUMAC offers not only music but also a sanctuary of tranquility and a means of healing. The annual recruitment process is announced on the platform Everytime from mid-February to early March, inviting all interested students to apply. To delve deeper into KUMAC’s mission and objectives, The Granite Tower (GT) recently conducted an interview with Kim Daewook ('20, Electrical Engineering), the director of KUMAC.

GT: Could you share notable activities or events that are organized by KUMAC, and were there any specific experiences that have left a lasting impression on you?

Kim: At the core of KUMAC lies the operation of the Classical Music Room, a space thoughtfully curated to offer comfort and coziness to KU students throughout the semester. Internally, we organize welcoming events for freshmen, known as Shin-hwaneum, as well as Pan-gumae, both held every semester. We also engage in exchange sessions with Yonsei University (YU)’s Classical Music Room, HARMONY, on a semester basis. Additionally, we host an autumn concert, inviting all students of KU to enjoy classical music altogether. Apart from these official events, we have weekly seminars, dinners, and a Membership Training (MT) event. One of my most cherished memories is our exchange with YU last May, where nearly 40 people gathered for a seminar in the Classical Music Room.

GT: Is there any crucial information about KUMAC that you believe more Korea University students should be aware of?

Kim: KUMAC is not just a club, but also an organization entrusted with the management of the Classical Music Room, which is an essential school facility that receives funding from KU on an annual basis. This support is allocated to enhance the experience of visitors to the Classical Music Room, enabling us to acquire records and essential items for their enjoyment. Therefore, students are encouraged to make requests for specific records, including compact discs (CDs) or longplaying records (LPs), as well as equipment such as chargers and cushions, to further enhance the room’s comfort. All requests will be subject to approval by the responsible administrative staff, and once approved, the suggested items will be promptly accommodated.

GT: How long have you been a member of KUMAC, and what motivated you to join?

Kim: The activity period for KUMAC spans two years, allowing for a one-semester break due to circumstances such as exchange programs or internships. During the first year, members acquire knowledge relevant to the operation of the Classical Music Room as trainees, including music recordings management and room opening procedures. In the subsequent year, they attain official membership and gain access to the listening room, taking on different roles in management, accounting, and other areas.

I joined KUMAC in March 2022 and have been serving as its director since March 2023. As an Electrical Engineering major, I have always harbored a strong interest in sound equipment. Upon hearing about KUMAC’s possession of exceptionally high-quality and expensive speakers, I was inspired to apply. The Listening Room is fully equipped with all the essentials for music appreciation, including speakers, LP records, amplifiers, and CD players. My motivation for applying primarily stemmed from my fascination with sound equipment, coupled with a genuine passion for classical music. Moreover, the opportunity to manage the Music Room and the unique ambiance it offers captivated me, resonating with fellow members who joined KUMAC for various reasons, such as their love for classical music or an appreciation for the room’s distinctive experience.

GT: When it comes to joining the association, does one need to possess a strong musical background or technical skills, or is a passion for music sufficient?

Kim:: It is good to have prior musical knowledge, but it is not a prerequisite. While many KUMAC members have a genuine passion for classical music and possess substantial musical knowledge, there are also numerous individuals, myself included, who discovered classical music through KUMAC. During KUMAC recruitment interviews, interviewees get a chance to emphasize their sincerity and true love for music. Furthermore, KUMAC’s primary focus is on operating the listening room, which does not require extensive musical expertise. Genuine interest in the ambiance of the listening room and demonstrating punctuality in commitments are sufficient. Even without a musical background, engaging in weekly seminars and discussing classical music with fellow members can foster a sense of appreciation for the genre.

GT: Are international students at KU eligible to join the association? If yes, what roles are they offered within the association?

Kim: KUMAC welcomes students from all backgrounds, and while the two-year activity period might pose a challenge for exchange students, it should not deter any applicants, regardless of nationality. In fact, we previously had international students who actively participated in KUMAC for the full two years. Hence, all applicants have an equal opportunity to apply for the position they feel passionate about or aspire to excel in, either during or after the training period. Therefore, nationality should not be a concern as long as you can commit to the two-year period and contribute to KUMAC’s endeavors.