Kim Hae-rang, Dancer

Kim Hae-rang was born in Odong-dong, Masan in 1915 and died in 1969.
He was a pioneer of the traditional Korean dancing world and contributed much to the development of traditional Korean dance.
After the Korean War, many dancers were kidnapped and sent to North Korea, which limited the activities of traditional Korean dancers.
However, he continuously held dance performances during this dark period in Korean history.
He established the Korea Dance Artist Association and became its first president.
While he was president of the association, he endeavored to cultivate the talent of many dancers.
The Dance Association of Korea awarded him a medal for his distinguished services.
In 1964, he also opened an office in Masan for the Gyeongnam Dance Association of Korea and made more endeavors toward the development of traditional Korean dance.
He produced many dancers such as Choe Hyeon, Sim Yeong-ja, Kim Haeng-ja, Yi Pil-i, Jung Yang-ja, etc.
His contribution to the development of traditional Korean dance is greatly appreciated.