The Korean Cultural Center Los Angeles (Director Sangwon Jung) hosted a Korean Traditional Coming-of-Age Ceremony at Ari Hall, honoring Korea’s rich cultural heritage and commemorating the 80th anniversary of liberation.

In collaboration with the Hwarang Youth Foundation and the Myungwon Cultural Foundation California Branch, the event showcased the significance of the transition to adulthood through Gwanhonsangje, the first of Korea’s Four Ceremonial Rites of Passage.

Twenty-four Korean and American youths participated, wearing traditional hanbok and performing rituals such as Samgarrye (Three Bows Ceremony) and Suhoonrye (Admonition Ceremony). Each participant received a Myeongjacheop (Certificate of Adulthood), symbolizing their new roles and responsibilities in society.

The ceremony also included special tributes, such as hand-painted portraits of U.S. veterans, honoring their contributions to Korea’s liberation. Families gathered alongside the participants to celebrate this meaningful milestone.