K-Arts in New York 2026: “Creatives in Motion”

K-Arts, in collaboration with the Korean Cultural Center (KCC) in New York, hosted “Creatives in Motion 2026” at the KCC New York concert hall from January 15 to January 17, featuring current students and alumni of K-Arts.

This initiative is part of a mid-to long-term partnership between K-Arts and KCC New York to present outstanding Korean performing arts abroad amid growing global interest in Korean culture, and to build a foundation for sustained international exchange.

Timed to coincide with the International Society for the Performing Arts (ISPA) congress, which brings together performing arts professionals from around the world, the event by supporting more than twenty young participants as they stepped onto a broader international stage.

This year’s program featured six artist teams working across interdisciplinary practices including contemporary Gugak, electronic music, contemporary dance, and traditional performing arts. Each team sought contemporary modes of expression through body and sound, movement and artistic techniques, going beyond fixed artistic forms.

The lineup included Greta Oto by Ohelen, La Plante Dansante de Désastres by Jo Seon-ah, Access by Bézier, VERTEBRA by Ha Yeonju, Boisterous Bodies by Shin’s People, and Yeonhee Gyeong by NOLPLUS. These works moved fluidly across genres and approached questions of the senses, the body, and community from diverse perspectives.

The opening program began with a pansori performance by Professor Chae Soojung (School of Korean Traditional Arts), followed by a collaborative performance featuring all participating artists. These opening pieces were soght to embody the project’s theme of exchange and expansion, creating moments where different genres and expressive languages intersect.

This year’s edition also offered participatory satellite programs. Ajumma Running, an extension of Shin’s People’s work, and ACHIM: Morning Rave, a reimagination of contemporary South Korean morning culture, both drew on everyday movements and bodily awareness while actively encouraging audience involvement. These programs sparked enthusiastic participation and a positive response from attendees.