Korean-American Day

It wasn’t until December of 1902, on the SS Gaelic, that 102 Korean immigrants set sail for Honolulu, Hawaii. The group arrived on January 13, 1903, initiating the first wave of Korean immigration. More than 7,500 Korean immigrants followed these pioneers’ paths over the next two years.

Korean American Day was first proclaimed by President George W. Bush on January 13, 2003, the 100th anniversary of the arrival of the first Koreans to the United States in 1903. The observance was made official by the U.S. In 2005, the U.S. Senate and House passed resolutions by unanimous consent expressing support for the goals and aspirations of Korean American Day, which is also celebrated by numerous states and municipalities.

Every year on January 13, the Korea Economic Institute of America sponsors a luncheon in Washington, DC to mark Korean American Day and recognize the local and national Korean American community. This event has come to be recognized as one of the preeminent celebrations in Washington, DC for Korean Americans.

Outside of formal celebrations, many prominent Korean Americans make an effort to expand awareness of this important, commemorative day each year, – particularly amongst younger generations.