Taking the Lead with Ara Cho

Ara Cho (@aracho216) is a dancer and choreographer based in Seoul. As a member of 1MILLION Dance studio (@1milliondance) she imparts her fierce approach through quick-hitting movements that nod to tradition while still fearlessly pushing the medium forwards. We caught up with her to examine the philosophies behind both her dance moves and her wardrobe choices.
What first drew you to dance? And how did you get started?

One day during my second year of university, I was deeply moved by the performance of a dance crew I saw by chance. I then started to learn dance in a renowned b-boy team, "T.I.P Crew", as a trainee.

My life has been changed dramatically by dance. My introverted and passive personality has become more energetic, independent and confident. I decided to be a professional dancer despite the atmosphere in Korean society, where higher education and academic success are taken very seriously. I did this because I wanted to share what I've experienced with a greater number of people—the positive energy of dance.

Can you speak about how you are able to express yourself through movement? Did that come naturally, or is it something you must learn to do?

I did not learn how to express myself through movement—it just came naturally. I believe this is the reality for most dancers, because dance is a great way to express oneself. It comes out naturally—it's impossible to not reflect your inner self in your dance style.

How would you describe your personal style and how does dance influence what you wear?

My personal style is feminine, but tough at the same time. I've developed this style because it helps me express myself through movements that also highlight my physical strength.

As one of the creative leaders at 1MILLION, how do you balance staying true to yourself while also serving as a role model for the next generation?

I focus on building small but healthy habits for self-development. Daily habits like a regular workout routine, weekly planning and creative thinking for ideation may seem small at first—but these routines make a huge difference in the long term when practised constantly.

What have you seen from your students and other dancers around the world that makes you optimistic for the future?

My students, and dancers around the world today, are so versatile. They don't simply perceive dance as body movement. They also see dance as a way to express yourself and an opportunity to create a unique style within current trends.

Instead of depending on others or their surroundings, these dancers have the passion to promote and win by themselves—this creates a stronger synergy. I believe their effort has a huge positive influence on cultural development.

How do you feel about the possibility of breakdancing becoming a competitive sport in the 2024 Olympics? Do you sense that dance, in all of its styles, is becoming more widely recognised? And if so, what does that mean to you?

I'm excited about the possibility of breakdancing becoming a competitive sport in the 2024 Olympics, and I think it's a great opportunity to be involved in a well-organised system and become more widely recognised. However, I hope that the freedom of expression through dance does not become too defined.

Thanks to social media, dance contests are more accessible, and a greater number of people are getting involved in dance. I believe it's important to treat dance as something that can be shared with all people, rather than something only for experts.

Where do you find inspiration for your creativity in places one might not expect?

I often get inspiration from interior designs. Interesting structures or patterns, like subway maps, capture a sense of space and inspire me in creating composition and the flow of choreography.

Studies have shown young women dropping out of sports at twice the rate of young men. What would you say to someone struggling to find the confidence to continue participating in an activity they love?

I believe everyone has their own path. If you have a strong belief in what you do, accomplishments will come no matter how many challenges you face. You can never say there's not a chance.

It takes a lot of courage to step out in a bold outfit. Where do you find the courage to stay true to who you are?

As a choreographer and dancer, I experiment with various styles that align with the theme and mood of my performance. I often research reference images, then add small tweaks to make it my own.

Even then, there are outfits that require a lot of courage. In those cases, I just go for it—I believe in myself and my professionalism, and also rely on fellow crew members to give me encouragement. After I take the leap, I feel I've broken a boundary. Then I give myself a small reward, like sleeping in, which helps me control my stress.

What does your personal style communicate? Does it say anything about you that words can't?

I am a quiet person, but that doesn't mean I don't have strong opinions. I like wearing clothes that may seem ordinary on the surface, but with an accessory that makes the look special. I think my style is an unfiltered expression of who I am.

Is style an art or an attitude?

For me, style is an art and a tool to maximise my preferred form of expression: dance.