2025 OMCA Lunar New Year Celebration


On February 8, Hansamo proudly represented Korean culture at the Lunar New Year Celebration held at the Oakland Museum of California. The museum itself is a beautiful space, designed in harmony with its surrounding gardens. In this modern and stunning venue, people gathered to celebrate the Lunar New Year and share the traditions of Korea, China, and Vietnam. The festival had a joyful and vibrant atmosphere, especially with so many families attending with young children.

Hansamo took the main stage with an exciting lineup of performances, including Nanta (Korean percussion), Samgomu (three-drum dance), and Pungmulnori (traditional Korean folk music and dance). The Nanta team, having grown closer as new members bonded, fully embraced the rhythm and energy of their drumming, bringing even more excitement to the performance. The dance team also delivered a graceful and dynamic Samgomu performance, including two newer members who joined less than six months ago. Dressed in vibrant yellow skirts, the students executed their intricate choreography flawlessly, standing out beautifully against the green lawn that served as a natural amphitheater for the audience.

The students introducing Hansamo and each performance have become increasingly confident and natural on stage, proudly sharing Korea’s rich culture with the audience. Before the Pungmul performance, they explained the meaning behind each instrument—how the kkwaenggwari (small gong), jing (large gong), janggu (hourglass drum), buk (barrel drum), and taepyeongso (double-reed horn) symbolize lightening & thunder, wind, rain, and clouds. The audience listened intently, fully engaged in the moment. As the performance began, the dynamic energy of the Pungmulnori drew everyone in. When the beona was introduced, the cheers grew even louder. The lively performance brought the audience together, and as all three teams exited the stage, we were met with enthusiastic applause, leaving everyone exhilarated and wanting more.

In the U.S., Lunar New Year is widely recognized, with banks handing out red envelopes and many referring to it as "Chinese New Year" due to the strong presence of Chinese traditions. At this event, Chinese culture was prominently featured. However, Korea and Vietnam also celebrate the Lunar New Year as one of their most significant holidays. Despite our busy schedules, Hansamo members have participated in many Lunar New Year performances, representing Korea and sharing its traditions. This fills us with pride and strengthens our commitment to promoting Korean culture.