Yeungnam University Professor Sohyun Park Receives Mongolia's Highest Honor, the "Order of Polar Star"... "Promoting Mongolian Traditional Music Globally"

Yeungnam University (President Choi Oechul) announced on November 26 that Professor Sohyun Park, who specializes in Korean traditional music at the Department of Music, has been awarded the Order of Polar Star, Mongolia’s highest honor for friendship. The award ceremony took place on November 21 at the Embassy of Mongolia in Seoul during the event commemorating the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and Mongolia. Nyamdavaa Khurelbaatar, Senior Advisor to President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh, presented the medal on behalf of the Mongolian president.

The Order of Polar Star is one of the highest state honors bestowed by the Mongolian government upon foreigners. It is awarded to individuals who have contributed to Mongolia’s national development, the advancement of culture and education, and the strengthening of international friendship. Past recipients include former U.S. President Barack Obama, former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

(From left) Suhe Suhbold, Ambassador of Mongolia to Korea; Professor Sohyun Park; Nyamdavaa, Senior Advisor to President Khurelsukh

Professor Park has been recognized for her significant contributions to the academic establishment and international dissemination of Mongolian musical culture through 25 years of continuous field research and study in Mongolian traditional music and musical anthropology. Her extensive field records and systematic research outcomes are regarded as core resources for Mongolian music studies both in Korea and abroad. In addition, as former president of the Korean Association for Mongolian Studies, Professor Park led the creation of an academic network between Korea and Mongolia. She has expanded the foundation for academic and cultural exchange between the two countries by operating researcher exchange programs, planning joint research projects, and supporting Mongolian artists and scholars in gaining international exposure.

Furthermore, through a wide range of activities such as concert planning, translation and consulting, and participation in international symposiums, she has played a pivotal role in introducing Mongolian traditional music to Korea and the international community. The Mongolian government highly praised Professor Park’s efforts, stating that she has made a significant contribution to elevating the international stature of the nation’s culture.

Prior to this honor, Professor Park was awarded the Presidential Medal commemorating the 800th anniversary of the Mongol Empire in 2006 and the Nairamdal Medal in 2023. She is recognized as a leading contributor to academic and cultural exchange by the Mongolian government.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.