Korean American Day
Korean American Day:
Celebrated annually on every January 13th, the Korean American Day pays tribute to the first Korean migrants to America in 1903 on this very day! This day also honors the Korean American community’s significant contributions to the US ever since!
Year | Date | Day | Where |
2021 | 13th January | Wednesday | United States |
2022 | 13th January | Thursday | United States |
2023 | 13th January | Friday | United States |
Twitter Hashtags:
#KoreanAmerican Day
Related: Other National Days Celebrated on January 13th:
Why Korean American Day?
The first Korean immigrants who arrived in 1903 should not be mistaken for the first Koreans ever to visit the US. The US and Korea had signed a treaty to ensure peace and trade relationships. This encouraged many Koreans to visit the US as diplomats, politicians, businessmen, and students but very few felt the urge to stay!
It was only in December 1902 that 102 Korean immigrants set sail on the SS Gaelic to reach Honolulu Hawaii. These families paved the way for immigrating of over 7,500 Koreans in the following two years.
Many of the Korean Americans served in the US Armed forces with distinction in World Wars I, II, and during the Korean conflict as well.
During the early 1950s, hundreds and thousands of Koreans trying to escape war, desolation, and poverty came to the US in pursuit of better opportunities. The wars drew more Koreans to the US. Some went on to become the wives of many US Armed officials and many children were adopted.
Throughout these years Koran American communities have developed roots in the US soil striving to have strong familial ties and community support with unfathomable hours of strenuous work.
A few of the significant Korean American community’ contributions to the US include a two-time Olympic gold medalist and Nectarine development among many others!
The Korean American community’s innumerable contributions can be felt in the many small and big ways too. In the past, Korean Americans like Wendy Gramm served the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission chair under two Presidents, Sang Hyun Lee went on to become the first Korean American Professor at the renowned Princeton Theological Seminary, and one Mr. Hines Ward Jr. represented the Pittsburgh Steelers!
Although the Korean Americans lived among the US people, it was only in 2005, after completing its 100 years of journey, that a special amendment in favor of the Korean American community was passed.
Today, we can see a huge impact on the contributions of this community as small businessmen, doctors, faith leaders, politicians, artisans, and the military as well!
How Can We Observe Korean American Day?
- Delve into the Korean-American History!
Celebrate the Korean American Day digging into some history. Catch up on what happened in 1902, the reasons for them to migrate, what was their life before arriving in the US, and how they have journeyed in the US for the last 100 years!
- Get to know more about Korean Americans!
Observe the day by watching documentaries or reading stories of some of the prominent Korean American figures then and now. You could also chat with a Korean American family or friend to know more about them. If you are a Korean American don’t hesitate to share your experience today! Korean American Story allows you to hear stories and record your own.
- Experience their culture
Celebrate by soaking in their culture through their music, food, and traditions. You could check out nearby venues that are hosting events to honor this day!
- Enjoy some Kimchi!
Celebrate the day by enjoying some classic Korean Kimchi that is a staple and favorite Korean salad!
- Show your esteem for Korean Americans via social signals
Share the Korean American’s story of Bravery, intellect, and valuable contributions to the US on all your social media pages today! Use #KoreanAmericanDay to encourage everyone to celebrate this day!
Interesting Facts About Korean American Day:
Here are some interesting facts surrounding the Korean American Day!
- The majority of Korean Americans are found in Los Angeles. The second and third highest populations can be found in California and New York respectively
- The Hart-Cellar Act passed in 1965 allowed more Koreans to migrate to the US
- The Korean American Day got a positive push in 2003 with President George W. Bush making it an official announcement
- It was only in 2005, that the Korea American Day was recognized officially by the Senate and the House to participate in celebrations
History of Korean American Day:
The Korean American Day was founded in 2005 by the Senate to celebrate the 103rd anniversary of the first Korean immigration to the US. The resolution supported their goals and ideals of this day and encourages everyone to appreciate and value the contributions of this wonderful community!