Renowned soprano Sumi Jo and first lady share surprising high school link

President Lee Jae Myung and first lady Kim Hea Kyung, center, smile as Sumi Jo, left, speaks at the meeting for awardees in the culture and arts sector held at the presidential office in Seoul, Monday. Joint Press Corps

World-renowned soprano Sumi Jo shares a close personal connection with first lady Kim Hea Kyung, as both are counted among the notable alumni of Sunhwa Arts High School.

The connection came to light during an arts and culture event hosted by the presidential office earlier this week. The gathering brought together leading figures from Korea’s artistic community and gave President Lee Jae Myung a chance to hear firsthand what support artists need to help K-culture thrive on the global stage.

Jo and Kim, alumni of Sunhwa Arts High School’s second and sixth graduating classes, respectively, were seen warmly greeting each other at the event. Kim affectionately referred to Jo as her “sunbae,” a Korean term for senior, underscoring their school-year hierarchy and enduring friendship. The first lady studied piano at the arts high school.

First lady Kim Hea Kyung, right, talks with opera singer Sumi Jo at a meeting for awardees in the culture and arts sector held at the presidential office in Seoul, Monday. Joint Press Corps

Their closeness was especially evident when the president posed a question to Jo. Turning to Kim, Jo playfully said, “I’m nervous, give me your hand,” before reaching out to hold both of the first lady’s hands. The affectionate moment drew considerable media attention. Throughout the 90-minute event, the two were also seen whispering to each other and sharing a warm embrace.

During her closing remarks, the first lady made eye contact with Jo and reflected on their shared past, having been invited to deliver the final comments of the evening.

“When we were in high school, there was a sign at the front gate that said, ‘This door opens to the world.’ There are so many people working in the field now, and as you mentioned, our citizens are overflowing with artistic talent. So it would be nice if the president could offer just a little more support,” she said with a laugh.

The president and Jo also share a previous connection, having first met during her 2017 concert organized by the Seongnam Cultural Foundation while Lee was serving as mayor of the city.

Their warm rapport extended to social media, where Jo once left a heart emoji on a video posted by Lee featuring the president’s pet dog.

“Thank you, Ms. Jo. My wife sends her regards as well,” Lee responded.