President’s Greetings

Kwang s. kim, 38th President of KAAGNY

 

Dear Members, Friends, and Visitors, 

  I am humbled and honored to address you as the newly elected President of the Korean American Association of Greater New York (KAAGNY). It is with great enthusiasm and a deep sense of responsibility that I step into this role, ready to harness my three decades of experience in the nonprofit sector to serve our vibrant community.

    Since its establishment in 1960, KAAGNY has been the heart and voice of the half a million Korean-Americans living in the Greater New York area. Our organization stands strong, resonating as a beacon of unity, a pillar of support, and a symbol of Korean pride. As we turn the page to this new chapter, we acknowledge our rich history and look towards a promising future.

    Our mission has always been to advance the interests, rights, and welfare of Korean-Americans while fostering an enhanced understanding between our community and the wider public. This task is both our duty and our privilege. Under my leadership, I pledge to uphold these principles, while also focusing on innovation and growth, ensuring that the needs of our dynamic community continue to be met effectively.

   Over the decades, KAAGNY has been pivotal in bridging the gap between the East and West, cultivating the unique Korean-American identity, and advocating for issues that directly impact our community. Our belief in the power of unity and the strength in diversity is unwavering. We will continue to provide an inclusive space for Koreans of all ages and backgrounds.

   From facilitating cultural events and providing essential resources, to being an active voice in local politics and community affairs, I am committed to ensuring that our voices are heard, understood, and empowered. Together, we will continue to promote Korean culture, heritage, and values while supporting the integration of Korean-Americans into the American mainstream.

   As we move forward, I am eager to work with each of you to write the next chapter in KAAGNY's illustrious history. Let us continue to be the bearers of the Korean-American Dream, illuminating the heart of America with our unwavering spirit and resilience.

I look forward to serving you and working with you in the days ahead.

Thank you for entrusting me with the honor of being your president.

With sincere appreciation,

Kwang S. Kim President

LEADERSHIP

EXECUTIVE officers

Kwang S. Kim, President

executive VICE PRESIDENTS (ALPHABETICAL ORDER)

Yong Won Bu (Administration), Christine Colligan (Education & Culture), Byung Mok Kang (Internal Affairs)

Jakyoung Kim (Public Relation), James Sungjin Kim (Policy & Strategic Planning)

Sun Debi Kim (External Affairs), Liz Eunja Ko (Korean Language), Seung Woo Lee (Advocacy)

Andy K. Sul (Economy & SBA), Paul J. Yoo (Event Planning)


SPECIAL COMMITTEE

James Sungjin Kim, Chairman, Center for Business Development

ChangHi Yun, Chairman, Building Committee

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

Young Joo Shin, Office Manager

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Kwang Won Lee, Chairman

APPOINTED BOARD MEMBERS

Won Cheol Choi

Yong Chul Kim

Charles H. Lee

Paul J. Yoo

COMMUNITY BOARD MEMBERS

The Korean American Senior Citizens Society of Greater New York

The Korean American Senior Citizens Association of New York

Council of Korean Churches of Greater New York

American Wheat Mission, Inc.

New York Nanoom House

The Korean Veterans Association Northestern Region, USA

Korean Sea Food Association of New York

Korean Refrigeration Business Association of New York

Korean Pharmacists Association of New York

New York Korean Lions Club

The Korean American Realty Association