From Capital Gains to Cultural Gains

Encapsulating 8,000 years of history from the Korean peninsula and spanning relics of antiquity to contemporary Korean artworks, ROM’s Korea Gallery is a space for preserving heritage and sharing cultural treasures. For Grace Kangmeehae and John Hong-Hee Lee, it epitomizes the importance of institutions like ROM. 

“ROM feels like a sanctuary for me,” says Grace. “Outside, the world moves at a relentless pace, but stepping inside I'm transported to the past, to a quiet escape where I can immerse myself in history and consider our future. But it goes beyond that – it fosters shared responsibility, lifelong learning, and cultural connection too.” 

Their relationship with the Museum began as many immigrant families’ do—through visits with their young children. It deepened when their friend Professor Chai-Shin Yu invited them to experience ROM’s Korea Gallery. He had played a pivotal role in establishing the Gallery by founding the Canadian Association for the Recognition and Appreciation of Korean Art (CARAKA), and his passion for preserving and promoting their shared culture was profoundly inspiring to Grace and John. 

“As Korean-Canadians, we feel a deep responsibility to ensure that our rich cultural heritage is honoured and shared,” says Grace, “and ROM’s Korea Gallery embodies this. We want to help strengthen it for future generations.” 

To help support and grow the Gallery, Grace and John decided to make a bequest to ROM in their wills. "We realized we could support this vibrant and enduring institution while also helping to preserve and share our own cultural heritage,” says Grace. 

By making this bequest, Grace and John join the Currelly Legacy Society, a visionary and committed group of donors who are building an exciting future for the Museum. Members receive invitations to special events, opportunities for lifelong learning, and expanded access to ROM’s galleries, exhibitions, and programming. 

With over 20 years of experience as a financial planner and a passion for philanthropy, Grace is a vital ambassador for the group, engaging others on the value of legacy giving and how the Canadian tax system can benefit society, donors, and beneficiaries. 

“I chose a bequest in my will because it allows me to make a purposeful impact by redirecting the capital gains taxes I would otherwise pay,” explains Grace. “This way, instead of leaving that decision to the government, I can ensure my contribution directly supports a cause I care deeply about.” 

“As the saying goes, ‘there are two things that are certain: death and taxes,’” continues Grace. “But with a legacy gift, you can plan ahead to turn your vision into something meaningful and evergreen, creating a lasting impact.” 

To learn more about leaving an indelible and tax-smart legacy, contact Janice Correa at janicec@rom.on.ca.