WONKYUNG
KIM

Wonkyung Kim is a distinguished pianist and a fourth-year doctoral candidate at the University of Iowa, where she is pursuing a Doctorate in Piano Performance and Pedagogy under the mentorship of Dr. Tammie Walker, Director of the School of Music. Currently an A.B.D. (All But Dissertation), Wonkyung is dedicated to advancing her research this year.

Hailing from South Korea, Wonkyung boasts an impressive musical background, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Piano Performance and a Master’s degree in Music Education from Gachon University, where she graduated at the top of her class, earning the President’s Award. With over fifteen years of performance experience, she has graced stages at the Hammaeum Choir Choral Festival, the Romania Banatul Timișoara Orchestra, and the Gangwon Traditional Korean Music Performing Arts Group. These diverse experiences have fueled her aspiration to blend Korean and Western musical traditions.

In her pursuit of excellence, Wonkyung chose to further her musical education at the University of Iowa. She has been honored with Teaching Assistantships during the 2019-2020 academic year as a Master’s student and the 2021-2023 academic years as a Doctoral student, in addition to receiving various grants and assistantships such as the prestigious John Simms Fellowship in Piano and Delta Kappa Gamma Society Award. With Various teaching experiences, she is pursuing her own piano education method by integrating educational approaches.

Upon completing her doctorate, Wonkyung aspires to become a great teacher and performer, contributing to the musical community that has profoundly shaped her journey. In her leisure time, she enjoys cooking, dancing, and exploring the scenic beauty of Iowa City.