National Korean American Day, observed annually on January 13, commemorates the arrival of the first Korean immigrants to the United States in 1903. This day celebrates the rich heritage, cultural contributions, and achievements of Korean Americans, who have profoundly shaped American society over the past century.
Quick Facts
- When is it? January 13
- Tagged as: Cultural, Historical
- What’s the hashtag? #KoreanAmericanDay
- When was it founded? Officially recognized in 2005
- Who founded it? U.S. Congress
History of National Korean American Day
The journey began on January 13, 1903, when 102 Koreans arrived in Honolulu, Hawaii, aboard the RMS Gaelic. They sought opportunities in sugar plantations and laid the foundation for a vibrant Korean American community. Over time, waves of immigration were influenced by events like the Korean War and the Immigration Act of 1965, which allowed more Koreans to migrate to the U.S. In 2005, this day was officially recognized by Congress to honor their enduring contributions.
Timeline
- January 13, 1903: First Korean immigrants arrive in Hawaii.
- 1948: Republic of Korea is established post-Japanese occupation.
- 1950-1953: Korean War leads to increased migration.
- 1965: Immigration and Nationality Act boosts Korean immigration.
- 2005: National Korean American Day is officially recognized.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | January 13 | Monday |
| 2026 | January 13 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | January 13 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | January 13 | Thursday |
| 2029 | January 13 | Saturday |
| 2030 | January 13 | Sunday |
Observed
Korean American Day is celebrated with cultural events, educational programs, and community gatherings. People often share stories of immigration, enjoy traditional Korean cuisine like kimchi and bulgogi, or participate in workshops showcasing Korean arts and crafts.
Fun Facts About National Korean American Day
- The first group of immigrants included mostly young men seeking work on sugarcane plantations.
- The Korean language has no linguistic relatives but borrows heavily from Chinese.
- Kimchi, a staple of Korean cuisine, is a probiotic that promotes gut health.
- The U.S. is home to over 1.7 million people of Korean descent.
Quiz
- When did the first Korean immigrants arrive in the U.S.?
a) 1903
b) 1948
c) 1965 - What ship brought the first group of Korean immigrants?
a) RMS Titanic
b) RMS Gaelic
c) SS America - Who was the first Korean American elected to Congress?
a) Jay Kim
b) Hines Ward
c) Sammy Lee
(Answers: 1-a, 2-b, 3-a)
FAQs
Q: Is National Korean American Day a federal holiday?
A: No, it is an observance but not a federal holiday.
Q: How can I celebrate this day?
A: Attend cultural events, try Korean food, or learn about Korean history and traditions.
Q: Why is January 13 significant?
A: It marks the date when the first wave of Korean immigrants arrived in Hawaii in 1903.
Related
- Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965
- Asian Pacific American Heritage Month
- Republic of Korea Independence Day