At a Glance
- California lawmakers officially proclaimed Jan. 13 as Korean American Day.
- The resolution honors the first Korean immigrants who arrived in Hawaii in 1903.
- Los Angeles hosts the largest Korean American population in the U.S.
- Why it matters: The move recognizes more than a century of Korean American contributions to the state.
California has formally recognized Korean American Day, marking the anniversary of the first Korean immigrants who landed in the United States on Jan. 13, 1903.
Lawmakers Push for Recognition
State Senator Stephen Choi (R-Irvine) and colleagues introduced Senate Concurrent Resolution 106 on Monday to enshrine the annual observance. Choi, the only Korean American serving in the California State Legislature, said the day carries deep personal meaning.
“Korean American Day reminds us of the journey from immigration to opportunity, and it affirms our shared responsibility to ensure that future generations can continue to thrive, contribute, and lead in California,” Choi stated.
Assemblymember Mark González (D-Los Angeles), whose district encompasses Koreatown, backed the resolution.
“I’m proud to celebrate the rich heritage and lasting impact of Korean Americans in Assembly District 54 and throughout California,” González said, adding he is “committed to ensuring this community receives the support and recognition it deserves.”
A 121-Year Journey
The commemoration traces back to Jan. 13, 1903, when more than 100 Korean immigrants arrived in Hawaii to escape Japanese colonial rule. That date is widely regarded as the starting point of Korean immigration to America.
Today, Southern California has become the heart of the Korean diaspora. Figures cited in the resolution show:
- 250,000 Korean Americans live in the city of Los Angeles alone
- The region hosts the largest Korean population outside of Korea
- Korean-owned businesses have become a staple of the local economy
Community Celebrates
The resolution comes as Korean Americans in Los Angeles continue to mark major milestones. Last April, community members gathered in Koreatown for “LA Uprising-Saigu,” an event commemorating the 30th anniversary of the 1992 civil unrest that devastated many Korean-owned businesses.
Participants waved flags and shared stories of resilience, underscoring the community’s role in the city’s fabric.
Ongoing Impact
Korean American Day is now officially recognized statewide, ensuring annual tributes to the community’s cultural, economic, and civic contributions. Lawmakers emphasized that the resolution is more than symbolic-it is a pledge to support future generations of Korean Americans in California.
Key Takeaways
- California’s Korean American Day honors immigrants who arrived in 1903
- The resolution passed with bipartisan support in the State Senate
- Los Angeles remains home to the largest Korean American population in the U.S.
