In 2013, while attending Pohang Arts High School, Kim Won was selected as a recipient of the POSCO Vision Scholarship. He went on to graduate from the College of Education at Cheongju University with a degree in Music Education and now serves as a music teacher at Oryun Middle School in Seoul. The scholarship provided vital support during one of the most financially difficult periods of his life, enabling him to continue his studies and solidify him aspirations of becoming an educator. Reflecting on his experience, Kim shares, “The scholarship was more than just financial aid—it was a powerful reminder that someone believed in me.” Twelve years later, he is passing on the love and encouragement he received to his students, continuing a legacy of positive influence. We are pleased to share his inspiring story.

 

 

Q. Hello, Mr. Kim Won, a graduate of the POSCO Vision Scholarship! How have you been? Please introduce yourself to our POSCO TJ Foundation newsletter subscribers.

Hello, POSCO TJ Foundation newsletter readers! It’s such a pleasure to reconnect with you all. My name is Kim Won, and I was selected as a POSCO Vision Scholar in 2013 after graduating from Pohang Arts High School. I can’t believe it’s already been 12 years. I still vividly remember the moment when my homeroom teacher, knowing my family was going through hard times, encouraged me to apply for the scholarship. I think that was the first time in my life I truly mustered up the courage to take on a challenge. Thanks to the scholarship, I was able to get through one of the most difficult times financially and go on to study music education at the College of Education at Cheongju University. Now, I’m in my fourth year as a music teacher in Seoul, and I’m incredibly grateful every day to be walking the path I once dreamed of. I'm living 2025 with passion, embracing both of my loves—music and education.

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Q. We heard you’re currently working as a music teacher at Oryun Middle School. Was becoming a music teacher always your dream? What inspired you?

Yes, I’m currently teaching students the joy of music at Oryun Middle School. To be honest, I didn’t always know I wanted to be a music teacher. I grew up in a pastor’s family, so church music was a natural part of my life from an early age, and I became very familiar with having music around me. That led me to dream of a career related to music. More than anything, I loved being at school. Going to school every morning made me happy, and spending time with friends and teachers was something I genuinely enjoyed. Those experiences made me realize that my place was in a school setting. So naturally, my love for both music and education came together, and I chose the path of a music teacher.

 

 

Q. What do you think are the pros and cons of being a teacher?

I believe being a teacher requires a strong sense of calling. As I’ve gotten older, my thoughts about work have changed a bit, but the core idea—that teachers are people who pass on the value and meaning of life to the next generation—has never changed. One of the greatest advantages is the deep sense of fulfillment and pride you get from the job. Knowing that my small efforts can have a positive impact on a student’s life brings me tremendous joy. The smiles and bright eyes of students give me an energy that words can’t describe. But of course, there are challenges too. You have to be physically and mentally healthy at all times. Teaching classes and working with fellow teachers requires a lot of energy, so self-care becomes even more important. And to be honest, one realistic downside is that the salary isn’t as high as people might expect.

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Q. It’s truly impressive that you chased your dream and made it this far. Now that you’re living it, how does it feel to be a teacher? Were there any differences from what you imagined?

Honestly, I’m quite satisfied with my work. But I’ve found it harder than I thought to be the fun and witty teacher I imagined. When I was a student, I had a lot of funny, charismatic teachers, and it’s not as easy to play that role myself. Instead, I focus more on delivering meaningful lessons and being genuine with my students. It may be a little different from what I expected, but I think the growth and learning I’ve gained in the process are even greater.

 

 

Q. Do you have any fun or memorable stories from your time as a teacher?

Ah, I’m sure you’d enjoy this kind of story! At our school festival, I once performed a Day6 song on stage with other teachers, and the students absolutely loved it. During a school retreat, I even surprised them with a dance cover of the K-pop song “Our First Meeting Was Too Difficult.” I’m not usually the quirky or funny type, but being able to create joyful memories like that for my students really stays with me. These moments are definitely a big source of energy in my teaching career.

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Q. What kind of teacher do you hope to become? Is there anything you'd like to say to yourself or any promises you’ve made as a teacher?

On the last day of my student-teaching experience, my mentor teacher gave me a letter with a line that still stays with me: “Be a teacher who communicates with students. Communication begins with looking into their eyes and having real conversations.” I want to live by that message. Even if I don’t stay in this profession forever, for as long as I am a teacher, I promise to always give my best and be someone who positively influences my students. I want to meet my students with sincerity, listen to their stories, and grow alongside them.

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Q. As a graduate of the Vision Scholarship, could you share some advice for younger Vision Scholars?

Dear younger Vision Scholars, congratulations on being selected! You now have a strong support system by your side. Learn freely, think freely, and challenge yourselves freely. Whatever you choose to do, you’re already on the right path. I hope you’ll color the world with your own unique shade. Sometimes, taking on a challenge can be scary, but it’s in those moments that you’ll grow and discover who you truly are. So don’t hesitate—keep moving forward!

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Q. Lastly, what does the POSCO Vision Scholarship mean to you? What does the POSCO TJ Foundation mean to you?

To me, the POSCO Vision Scholarship was a precious turning point that proved I could challenge myself and succeed. I believe that being able to help others—and the joy that comes from it—is one of the most precious and noble things in the world. I carry this belief deeply in my heart and hope to live a life where I can share the love and support I received with others. I am truly grateful that I am who I am today because of the courage and hope the POSCO TJ Foundation and the Vision Scholarship gave me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I hope this small story of mine brings warmth and encouragement to you all, and that your dreams and daily lives are always filled with the bright energy of music. Wishing you health and happiness always!