By: Symone Gosby, Student Ambassador, USA Pavilion 2012

At the age of 21, as the youngest member of SNSD (or Girls’ Generation), Seohyun has accomplished so much. She is part of one of the most popular South Korean girl groups, has participated in a hit TV show (우리 결혼 했어요, We Got Married), and even broadened her career to voice acting in the animated movie Despicable Me, all while attending university. In May 2012, she was appointed Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Pavilion at Yeosu’s World Expo. On June 20th, 2012 Seohyun graced Yeosu with her presence with a visit to the UN Pavilion. I and fellow Student Ambassador Bjorn Schwarzenbach were able to meet Seohyun during her visit.

I have been an SNSD fan ever since I started listening to Korean pop during my sophomore year of high school. From the song ”Gee” in their second album to ”The Boys” in their most recent full-length album, I’ve enjoyed following their changing style and musical talent. Although I knew before coming to Yeosu that Seohyun was the UN Goodwill Ambassador, I never expected to have the opportunity to meet her face-to-face.

The gentleman that made this meeting possible was Ambassador Samuel Koo, the Commissioner General of the UN Pavilion. Bjorn and I arrived at the UN Pavilion early to meet Commissioner General Koo and be prepped for Seohyun’s arrival. Outside of the pavilion, there were already many fans waiting to catch a glimpse of Seohyun and possibly get her signature.