School of Music Alumna Kim Minjoo Selected for K-WAVE LEADERS TOP 100 in the K-ART Category

Clarinetist and music director Minjoo Kim, an alumna of the School of Music, has been selected for the K-ART category of the K-WAVE LEADERS TOP 100. This recognition acknowledges her remarkable achievements as a performer and educator, her contributions to the growth of orchestral and classical music culture in Korea, and her visionary approach to promoting Korean classical music on the global stage.

The K-WAVE LEADERS TOP 100 is a global initiative that identifies and honors individuals whose expertise, innovation, influence, and global potential are helping shape Korea’s next chapter. The initiative evaluates candidates not only on their professional accomplishments but also on their social impact, leadership, and ability to connect Korea with the international community. Kim currently serves as Music Director and Principal Clarinetist of The Korean New York Daily Symphony Orchestra. Through her multifaceted work as a performer, educator, and orchestra leader, she strives to bridge the gap between artists and audiences, broaden opportunities for emerging musicians, and elevate the global presence of Korean classical music. 

Kim first encountered the clarinet as a hobby during her late elementary school years. Captivated by its distinctive sound and deep expressive possibilities, she ultimately decided to pursue music professionally. After attending Sunhwa Arts Middle and High School, she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the School of Music at K-Arts, later furthering her studies at Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Miami. Alongside her active performing career, Kim passes on her expertise to the next generation as a faculty member at Sunhwa Arts Middle and High School, the K-Arts School of Music, and Sejong University.

Reflecting on her artistry, Kim noted that performance goes far beyond simply hitting the correct notes; for her, what matters most is the emotion she conveys to the audience. She believes that a truly great performance begins with listening to others, explaining that in an orchestra, musicians must tune into one another and harmonize their individual voices with those of their peers.

Kim also shared her bold vision for the future of Korean classical music on the international stage. "Rather than simply seeing Korean musicians perform overseas, I hope their artistry, excellence, and distinctive musical identity can become a global brand in their own right," she stated. Addressing aspiring musicians, Kim encouraged them to cultivate their own unique musical worlds rather than pursuing achievement for its own sake, urging them to grow into accomplished artists without being confined by national boundaries.