The Love We Share Foundation, based in Edmonton, was founded in April 2014 with the goal of supporting local community needs through music. Sam Seo, the Producer and Artistic Director of the Foundation, wanted to create a project to recognize the Canadians who served during the Korean War. “Remembering those Canadians who participated in the Korean War is very important for Korean-Canadian citizens,” he says.
The original project was set to hit the road in June 2020 with several events, initiatives and concerts scheduled across Canada. When the COVID-19 pandemic restricted public gatherings, Seo had to pivot and re-think his original plan.
The Love We Share Foundation was still determined to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Korean War. “We still wanted to highlight the talent of our musicians, and of course, commemorate the sacrifices of those who served during the Korean War,” says Seo.
“We all know that music has healing power… and music can help us get through these difficult times.”
Seo decided to create a virtual concert. Recordings were done with various musicians in South Korea, Edmonton, and Ottawa. He was able to secure an introductory greeting from the South Korean Ambassador to Canada, Chang Keung-Ryong. “We all know that music has healing power… and music can help us get through these difficult times,” Ambassador Keung-Ryong states at the beginning of the video message.
Recordings were done with various musicians in South Korea, Edmonton, and Ottawa.
Sosun Suh, based in Ottawa, is an artist involved in the project. She plays the Haegeum, a traditional Korean string instrument. For Suh, the virtual concert represents unity and togetherness. “And that’s the true power of music,” she says. “For many, the Korean War is seen as the forgotten war. Playing my instrument is a unique way to honour the Veterans who served – and ensure their sacrifices are not forgotten.”
“The production is dedicated to all the Canadian soldiers who fought during the Korean War, and their family members.”
All in all, the virtual production took Seo three months to complete. It’s his hope that the video will be shared across Canada and seen by as many people as possible. “We want Canadians to be aware of how appreciative Koreans are for their service. The production is dedicated to all the Canadian soldiers who fought during the Korean War, and their family members,” he says.
It’s clear Seo had the dedication and determination to finish this project. “Unfortunately, I was diagnosed with COVID-19 in December 2020.” But this didn’t stop him. “I was in agony, but able to complete the final stage of editing for our virtual concert while in the hospital.”
This April marked the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Kapyong, widely regarded as Canada’s most significant action during the Korean War. In the absence of in-person events, Seo hopes his production is viewed by as many Korean War Veterans as possible.
The efforts of Seo and the Love We Share Foundation are a reminder that although in-person events are currently limited, we can find unique and creative ways to ensure the memories and sacrifices of our Veterans are not forgotten.
Honouring Canada’s Veterans
Veterans Affairs Canada is committed to honouring those who served Canada during times of war, military conflict and peace, and to keeping the memory of their achievements and sacrifices alive for all Canadians. Funding is available to organizations that undertake commemorative initiatives through the Commemorative Partnership Program.
