Yeongdeok-gun's 'Blue Ara' Sweeps Encouragement and Popularity Awards at National Developmental Disabilities Choir Competition

Enjoying a Harmonious Stage Overcoming Disability with a Beautiful Voice

The Blue Ara Choir, composed of individuals with developmental disabilities from Yeongdeok-gun, Gyeongbuk Province (led by Director Lee Juhak), swept the Encouragement Award and Popularity Award at the 11th National Developmental Disabilities Choir Competition held at the National Assembly Members' Office Building on the 4th.

Yeongdeok-gun Developmental Disabilities Choir 'Blue Ara'.

This competition featured fierce competition among over 20 teams nationwide vying for 10 spots in the finals. The Blue Ara Choir, through regular rehearsals twice a week and practical experience gained from various local events, festivals, and concerts, received the Encouragement Award again following last year's 10th competition and added the Popularity Award this time.

The Yeongdeok-gun Blue Ara Choir was founded last year through the Resident Participation Budget System and consists of about 30 individuals with intellectual and autism spectrum developmental disabilities. Through active musical activities, they not only express their talents and realize their self-identity but also expand opportunities for social participation for people with disabilities.

County Governor Kim Kwang-yeol encouraged, “We will provide unwavering support so that individuals with intellectual and autism spectrum developmental disabilities can build confidence and social experience as members of the local community through musical activities.”