Korean American Coalition Los Angeles
About Korean American Coalition Los Angeles
Since its incorporation in 1983, the Korean American Coalition Los Angeles has been the primary voice advocating for the civic and civil rights interests of Korean Americans throughout Los Angeles, CA. Born from the recognition that Korean Americans face significant barriers to meaningful participation in American society, KAC emerged as a bridge between immigrant communities and civic institutions, fundamentally transforming how Korean Americans engage with local government and public policy.
KAC's mission extends beyond traditional advocacy to encompass multi-generational community building and empowerment. The organization galvanizes first, second, and third generation Korean Americans into civic action while maintaining deep partnerships with diverse ethnic communities around shared concerns. A defining moment came during the 1992 Los Angeles Riots when KAC established itself as the authoritative community voice, representing Korean American concerns to mainstream media, elected officials, and government agencies during a critical period of crisis and change.
Over nearly four decades, KAC has developed into a comprehensive resource for community support, having trained more than 850 college students in leadership and community organizing, sponsored over 210 internships, and co-founded the Black Korean Alliance to strengthen inter-ethnic relationships. Recognized as a Non-Profit of the Year honoree in 2017—the first Korean American organization to receive this honor in California—KAC continues its foundational commitment to education, community organizing, and coalition-building. The organization remains dedicated to serving as an informational resource, removing barriers to civic participation, and ensuring the Korean American community's voice shapes the future of Los Angeles.