Korean American Coalition Washington
About Korean American Coalition Washington
Founded in early 2002 by Korean American leaders in Bellevue, WA, the Korean American Coalition Washington emerged from a recognized need for greater Korean American civic participation and representation. What began as the Korean American Voters Alliance (KAVA) with grassroots voter registration drives has evolved into a vibrant community organization serving first, second, and multi-generational Korean Americans, adoptees, refugees, and supporters.
KAC-WA's mission centers on empowering the Korean American community by fostering informed civic engagement, cultivating strong leaders, and amplifying community voices in legislative and civic affairs. The organization believes that an informed and engaged community forms the foundation for a thriving democracy. This philosophy has guided KAC-WA's transformation from a local initiative into the official Washington State Chapter of the National Korean American Coalition, which now encompasses 15 chapters across the country.
The organization's evolution reflects its commitment to community integration and growth. The 2008 merger with the Korean American Professionals Society of Seattle demonstrated KAC-WA's dedication to combining resources and strengthening the broader Korean American community. Today, with over 4,500 members, KAC-WA creates meaningful opportunities for community members to connect, develop leadership skills, and make tangible differences in their neighborhoods. Through volunteer-led committees, board participation, and member engagement, KAC-WA builds a community of grit where Korean Americans can organize, be heard, and shape their collective future across Washington State and beyond.