Driven by the global rise of K-pop and K-dramas, interest in learning the Korean language, including Hangeul or the Korean alphabet, has exploded across the United States in recent years. This growing enthusiasm has reached far beyond the Korean American community to include non-native speakers, adoptees and multicultural families. Standing at the center of this trend is Soojin Cho, a veteran educator who has spent nearly three decades teaching Hangeul to younger generations and expanding Korean language education in America. In recognition of her lifelong dedication, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism awarded Cho the Cultural Merit Medal during the 580th Hangeul Day national celebration in Seoul, Oct. 9. The Korean government commended her for developing vital Korean language curricula for students overseas and leading regional education networks. Receiving one of the highest honors for Hangeul advancement was a deeply rewarding moment for Cho, who served as the 12th and 13th president of the National Association for Korean Schools, Mid-Atlantic Chapter from 2022 to 2026. Under