Sojung Hong

Dr. Sojung Hong is Professor of Music and Director of the Master of Music in Community Music program at Judson University. An active pianist and educator, she specializes in cultural outreach through music. Her work bridges Western and Korean musical traditions, organizing benefit concerts globally and serving as Executive Director of Little Light Midwest Musicians.

Education:

• DMA in Piano Performance and Literature, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
• MA and BA from Seoul National University, South Korea

Research Focus: Dr. Hong develops community engagement models through music, focusing on cultural diversity, cross-cultural performance practices (particularly Korean-Western fusion), music accessibility initiatives, and pedagogical approaches for community music programs. Her grant-funded albums demonstrate applied research in ethnomusicology.

Awards & Honors:

• Margaret Hillis Award for Arts Advancement (2017)
• Double President Awards (Seoul National University & Seoul Arts High School)
• SNUAA USA Service Award (2022)
• Departmental recognition at Judson University (2017)

Leadership & Outreach: Founded Judson's Performance Certificate program and 'Open Future Concerts' scholarship series. Directed concert programs at Korean Cultural Center of Chicago. Conducted international workshops in Cambodia, Mexico, and Peru through Music from Above missions.