Established in 1937, Sangmyung High School stands as a testament to time. It has witnessed the ebb and flow of Seoul’s history. Imagine standing here, on Bugaksan-ro, almost a century ago. Picture the bustling city around a brand new school, Sangmyung Girls’ Vocational School. This was its original name. Its founder, Bae Sang-myung, envisioned a place where young women could learn vital skills. He instilled the school’s motto: “Discover the truth, live righteously, and serve others.”
Sangmyung High School wasn’t always the institution you see today. Originally located in Jongno-gu, it moved to Yongsan-gu in 1946, then back to Jongno-gu in 1953. It finally settled in its current location in Jung-gu in 1994. These moves reflect the turbulent times Seoul experienced throughout the 20th century. Through it all, Sangmyung High School remained a beacon of education.
In 1939, just two years after its founding, the school underwent a name change, becoming Sangmyung Practical Women’s School. Its curriculum expanded. It offered a three-year general course and a two-year advanced course. Its motto was solidified, shaping generations of students. Then, amidst the Korean War, the school was designated as Sangmyung Girls’ Middle and High School in 1951. This marked a significant shift in its educational focus. Bae Sang-myung, a prominent figure in the school’s history, continued to lead the institution.
In the following decades, Sangmyung High School transitioned to a co-educational system. It embraced change while upholding its founding principles. The middle school separated in 1979. The school became Sangmyung Girls’ High School. Then, in 2003, it took on its present name: Sangmyung High School. As of 2010, the school boasted a student body of over 1,300, a testament to its enduring legacy.
Today, Sangmyung High School stands proud. It continues to shape young minds. It prepares students for the future. As you look at this building, remember the generations who walked these halls before you. They learned, they grew, and they contributed to the vibrant tapestry of Seoul. Sangmyung High School isn’t just a building. It is a living testament to the power of education and the enduring spirit of Seoul.