Government leaders and representatives from the Korean American Federation of Los Angeles celebrated Korean American Day. (photo courtesy of U.S. Rep. Jimmy Gomez’s office)

U.S. Reps. Jimmy Gomez (D-Los Angeles) and Judy Chu (D-Pasadena), chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, reintroduced a resolution on Jan. 13 celebrating Korean American Day, which marked the 120th anniversary of the arrival of the first Korean immigrants to the United States on Jan. 13, 1903.

To commemorate the historic milestone, Gomez joined the Korean American Federation of Los Angeles and announced plans to introduce a resolution designating a post office in Koreatown after renowned Korean American leader and activist Dosan Ahn Chang Ho.

“Since the arrival of the first Korean immigrants to the United States 120 years ago, Korean Americans have been integral to the social fabric and economic output of our country,” Gomez said. “As the representative of Koreatown in Los Angeles, home to the largest Korean American population in the United States, I am honored to lead this resolution recognizing their immeasurable contributions to our country. I am also thrilled to announce that I delivered $7 million for the creation of the Korean American National Museum right in the heart of Los Angeles Koreatown, secured House passage of a resolution honoring Korean and Korean American Veterans of the Vietnam War and will be introducing a resolution to designate a post office after Korean American leader Dosan Ahn Chang Ho. The Korean American story is the American story, and I’m fighting to ensure this community receives the recognition and support it deserves.

“KAFLA is energized to continue our partnership with Rep. Gomez to better serve Los Angeles,” said James An, president of the Korean American Federation of Los Angeles (KAFLA). “Rep. Gomez’ office has been pivotal in providing small business assistance through SBA programs and advocating for our community alongside the Stop the Hate Task Force. As we salute the 120-year history and contributions of Korean American immigrants, we celebrate our community’s perseverance throughout the pandemic and honor the resilience of our forefathers.”

For information, visit gomez.house.gov.