When I arrived in the U.S. at age seven, my main goal was simple: fit in as quickly as possible. That meant doing my best to blend in, pronounce my name the “easy” way, and pretend I didn’t know what kimchi smelled like in my lunchbox.

Like many immigrant kids, I thought I had to choose between being Korean or being American. What I didn’t realize then was that I wasn’t living in just one world I was navigating multiple dimensions.

My Korean heritage and my American upbringing weren’t competing identities; they were parallel realities. One gave me language, tradition, and a deep sense of family. The other gave me new perspectives, opportunities, and a different way of seeing the world. Over time, I learned that I didn’t have to pick one or the other, I could move between them, carry both, and even laugh about the moments when they collided.

I’ve been inspired by the incredible organizations and community leaders working to support Korean-American families. From cultural programs and language schools to advocacy groups and youth initiatives, there are so many people dedicating their time and energy to strengthening our community.

These organizations create spaces where Korean culture is celebrated, where families can find support, and where the next generation can learn about their heritage with pride.

These are a few of the groups doing meaningful work to uplift and connect Korean-American communities.

Let me know if you know or a part of a Korean organization

The Korea Society

• One of the 1st organizations I found that offers rich educational activities from making gimchi to navigating current political climate

Korean American Story

• Truly capturing, writing and preserving Korean American history through videos from our community

Korean American Family Service Center

• Supports and empowers adults, youth, and children against domestic violence, sexual assault, and relationship abuse

Korean Community Services of Metropolitan New York

• Serves as a bridge for Korean immigrants by providing culturally competent Aging, Education, Immigration, Workforce Development, Public Health, and Mental Health programs

Korean American Community Foundation

• Provides grants and organizational development support to nonprofit groups working to address the most pressing needs in the Korean American community

MinKwon Center for Community Action

• Immigrant rights and open space for Korean Americans to devote themselves to service, youth education, and cultural activities for the community

Asian American Federation

• Advocacy for better policies, services, and funding to change the systems that lead to more justice and opportunity for Asian immigrants

Asian Americans for Equality

• Advances racial, social and economic justice with community care, affordable housing, homeowner counseling, and support for small businesses