Alan Heyman

Alan Heyman, also known by his Korean name Hae Eui-man, was a renowned musicologist and composer who dedicated his life to the preservation and promotion of traditional Korean music. Born in the United States in 1931, Heyman's connection to South Korea began in 1953 when he arrived in the country with the United States Army during the Korean War. This initial encounter sparked a deep interest in Korean music, leading him to pursue a graduate degree in music education at Columbia University.

Heyman's passion for Korean music led him to relocate to South Korea permanently in 1960, where he devoted himself to research and composition. He played a significant role in introducing traditional Korean music to global audiences, leading music troupes on tours of North America and Europe. His contributions to the field were recognized with awards from national and international organizations, solidifying his position as a leading authority on Korean traditional music. In 1995, Heyman demonstrated his commitment to his adopted country by renouncing his US citizenship to become a South Korean citizen, remaining in the country until his passing in 2014.