Explore Korean businesses and organizations in Illinois serving your community. Find law firms, medical practices, restaurants, retail stores, nonprofits, cultural organizations, and community services owned by or dedicated to serving the Korean community. Connect with establishments that understand your cultural values and provide services in your language.
Korean Student Association at UIUC in Urbana, Illinois represents a thriving community of students united by shared heritage, cultural pride, and mutual support. As a student-led organization, KSA embodies the values of inclusivity, connection, and cultural celebration while serving the diverse needs of Korean and Korean-American students navigating university life.
At its core, KSA is driven by a mission to create belonging and foster authentic relationships among students who share Korean background and interests. The organization recognizes that student life extends beyond the classroom, and KSA provides essential spaces where members can celebrate their identity, practice their language, and build lasting friendships. Through regular social events, cultural programs, and community gatherings, KSA transforms the UIUC campus in Urbana into a welcoming environment where Korean heritage is honored and shared.
Beyond cultural programming, KSA demonstrates deep commitment to supporting the whole student—academically, professionally, and personally. The organization facilitates connections between students and major employers through career-focused events, maintains communication channels for housing and resource sharing, and creates mentorship networks where experienced students guide newcomers through their university journey. KSA also serves as a bridge between the student community and broader Korean institutions, including official consular services and international exchange programs.
What distinguishes KSA is its student-centered approach and genuine commitment to community care. Operating entirely through student leadership and volunteer efforts, the organization reflects the authentic voices and priorities of its members. For Korean students at UIUC in Urbana, IL, KSA represents far more than a club—it is a home away from home, a support system, and a celebration of cultural identity within the university community.
Rooted in the University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign community, the Korean American Student Association represents a dedicated group of students committed to celebrating and preserving Korean American culture on campus. Located in Champaign, IL, this student organization serves as a welcoming home for Korean American students and anyone interested in learning about and appreciating Korean heritage, traditions, and contemporary culture.
The association embodies a mission of community, connection, and cultural pride. Members come together to share experiences, support one another through the college journey, and create meaningful traditions that honor their backgrounds. By fostering relationships among students with shared cultural identities, the organization provides a vital sense of belonging within the larger UIUC community in Champaign, Illinois.
What distinguishes the Korean American Student Association at UIUC is its emphasis on authentic cultural expression and inclusive community building. The organization recognizes the importance of maintaining cultural connections while embracing the diverse experiences of its members. Through regular gatherings, cultural events, and collaborative initiatives, the association strengthens the fabric of student life at the University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign in Champaign, IL, while contributing to greater campus awareness and appreciation of Korean American perspectives and contributions. The organization stands as a testament to the value of cultural organizations in creating supportive, vibrant communities within university settings.
Gah Rahk Mah Dahng stands as a student organization rooted in the heart of the University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign campus in Champaign, Illinois. This organization embodies the spirit of student-driven community building, bringing together individuals who share common values and aspirations. Operating within Champaign, IL, the organization reflects the diverse and inclusive culture that characterizes the University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign.
At its core, Gah Rahk Mah Dahng is dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships among its members while contributing positively to campus life. The organization recognizes that student engagement extends beyond academics, encompassing personal development, social connection, and community contribution. By serving students at the University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign in Champaign, the organization creates spaces where members can authentically connect, share experiences, and support one another's growth.
The organization's commitment to its members reflects a broader understanding of what makes university life transformative. Students involved with Gah Rahk Mah Dahng benefit from peer mentorship, collaborative opportunities, and the chance to be part of something larger than themselves. Located in Champaign, IL, this student organization exemplifies how campus groups enrich the educational experience and help students develop lifelong connections. Through active participation and genuine community engagement, Gah Rahk Mah Dahng contributes meaningfully to the student experience at the University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign.
Located in Urbana, Illinois, Crossway at UIUC is a student-led organization dedicated to fostering meaningful connections and personal growth among members of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign community. As a registered student organization within the university's OneIllinois engagement platform, Crossway represents the diverse tapestry of student life at one of the nation's premier research institutions. The organization embodies the university's core values of inclusion, collaboration, and community service by bringing together students from various backgrounds and disciplines to work toward shared goals. Crossway operates within an ecosystem of hundreds of student organizations at the Urbana campus, each contributing to the rich cultural and intellectual life of the university. Members of Crossway benefit from access to an extensive calendar of campus events, networking opportunities with fellow students, and the chance to develop leadership experience in a supportive environment. By serving the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign student body in Urbana, IL, Crossway demonstrates the power of student-driven initiatives to create positive change and strengthen campus community bonds. The organization's commitment to engagement and member satisfaction reflects the broader mission of the university to develop well-rounded graduates prepared to make meaningful contributions to society.
Operating continuously since 1968, the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Chicago has established itself as a vital bridge between the Korean government and the diverse communities across the Midwest. This long-standing diplomatic institution is dedicated to serving the Korean community throughout 13 states while advancing mutual understanding between the Republic of Korea and the United States. The consulate recognizes the Midwest's historic role as an economic powerhouse and intellectual center, with deep roots in American politics, academia, and industrial development. Beyond traditional government functions, the consulate actively listens to the voices and concerns of Korean residents and community members throughout its jurisdiction, ensuring their interests are represented and their needs are addressed. The organization is committed to expanding cultural and economic exchange that benefits both nations, fostering people-to-people connections that strengthen bilateral relationships. By maintaining an open dialogue with the Korean community in Chicago, IL and surrounding states, the consulate demonstrates its commitment to being responsive and accessible. The institution's decades of service reflect a steadfast dedication to promoting Korean cultural heritage, supporting economic opportunities for Korean businesses and investors, and advocating for the rights and welfare of Koreans living in the American Midwest. Through continued engagement and partnership with community stakeholders, the consulate works to build lasting connections that honor both Korean and American values.
Founded in 1993, the Korean American Bar Association of Chicago (KABA) is a nonprofit professional organization rooted in the values of leadership, community service, and meaningful professional relationships. With approximately 400 members, KABA serves as a vital community hub for Korean American attorneys and law school students throughout Chicago, IL, fostering connections that extend far beyond traditional networking.
At the heart of KABA's mission is a commitment to giving back to the community it serves. In partnership with the HANA Center, KABA operates a free legal clinic that has provided assistance to over 1,000 individuals during the past decade. The clinic, held virtually on the first Thursday and third Tuesday of each month, offers initial legal consultations addressing diverse issues including immigration, real estate, family law, bankruptcy, criminal law, and general litigation matters. KABA's volunteer attorneys represent all practice areas and backgrounds, demonstrating the organization's inclusive approach to community service.
Beyond pro bono work, KABA creates spaces where Korean American legal professionals can build meaningful relationships, share experiences, and support one another's professional journeys. The organization's mentorship program, professional events, and social gatherings reflect a philosophy that views the legal profession as an opportunity for community engagement and collective growth. For law students and experienced attorneys alike, KABA offers a welcoming community dedicated to professional excellence and service to the Chicago-area Korean American community.
Since its founding in 2004, the Sejong Cultural Society has served the Glenview, Illinois area and the broader United States as a bridge between Korean heritage and contemporary American culture. As a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Sejong is driven by a mission to create deeper understanding and appreciation of Korea's colorful history among younger generations through the power of creative and fine arts.
What sets the Sejong Cultural Society apart is its belief that Korean culture can harmoniously integrate with Western traditions to foster meaningful cross-cultural dialogue. The organization recognizes that cultural exchange enriches communities and breaks down barriers between people of different backgrounds. Through carefully designed programs—including music and writing competitions, sijo poetry initiatives, and educational resources—Sejong creates pathways for students, educators, and artists to engage authentically with Korean traditions.
The organization's impact extends far beyond Glenview, with programs attracting participants from across North America and internationally. Sejong has cultivated partnerships with educational institutions, including the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and has garnered recognition from prestigious organizations such as the Association for Asian Studies. The society maintains an active community presence through its YouTube channel, book club, and ongoing educational workshops. By focusing on youth engagement and contemporary artistic expression, the Sejong Cultural Society demonstrates that traditional Korean culture remains vibrant, relevant, and accessible to diverse audiences in the modern world. Their commitment to cultural understanding continues to strengthen communities throughout Illinois and beyond.
Rooted in the Schaumburg, Illinois community, the Korean Women's International Network (KOWIN) Chicago Chapter represents a global movement of women leaders dedicated to advancing the interests and well-being of Korean women worldwide. Founded with encouragement from Korea's Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, KOWIN Chicago embodies a commitment to solidarity, mutual support, and collective empowerment among women of Korean descent. The organization's mission centers on building an inclusive network where international women of Korean descent can discover their potential, receive mentorship, and become respected community leaders. KOWIN Chicago goes beyond traditional networking by addressing the specific needs and aspirations of Korean American women, promoting both personal well-being and professional advancement. The organization understands that Korean women face distinct challenges in navigating professional and cultural landscapes, and it provides a supportive community where members can share experiences and advocate for one another. Through the Chicago Korean Women's Foundation, KOWIN extends its impact to serve girls and women of Korean descent across the United States and globally, particularly in underserved communities. The foundation's work emphasizes educational opportunities, gender equality advocacy, and cultural preservation while addressing poverty-related barriers to success. KOWIN Chicago's officers and members demonstrate deep commitment to their mission through hands-on involvement in scholarship distribution, educational forums, and community engagement initiatives. By fostering relationships built on shared heritage and common goals, KOWIN Chicago creates an environment where Korean American women support each other's growth and contribute meaningfully to their broader communities.
Founded on August 15, 1990, KAN-WIN emerged from the vision of women's advocates and social service providers responding to urgent needs within the Korean American community of Park Ridge, Illinois and surrounding areas. The organization's name reflects its evolution—originally established as Korean American Women In Need, it became KAN-WIN to honor the increasingly diverse clientele it serves across Asian American communities and beyond. Rooted in the belief that happiness increases and pain decreases when shared with others, KAN-WIN operates as a compassionate companion to survivors navigating their journey toward freedom and healing. The organization's mission centers on eradicating gender-based violence through culturally competent services, meaningful community engagement, and advocacy that addresses systemic barriers. KAN-WIN's values emphasize survivor agency and centricity, recognizing that each survivor possesses the capacity to achieve independence and should direct their own path to healing. The organization embraces intersectionality and equity, understanding that oppression in all forms is interconnected and requires holistic, culturally specific approaches. Grounded in community-based solutions and cultural humility, KAN-WIN works in partnership with the communities it serves, building relationships founded on trust and solidarity. The agency's commitment to resilience and sustainability ensures continued dedication to creating safe, healthy communities free from violence and oppression where all individuals, especially historically marginalized women and children, can reach their full potential.
For over six decades, the Korean American Association of Chicago has stood as the unified voice and representative institution of the Korean American community in Illinois, serving as a beacon of solidarity and mutual support. Established in 1962, KAAC has grown through the dedicated leadership of 28 presidents and the collective strength of the entire Korean American community in Chicagoland, reflecting a commitment to promoting unity and advancing the welfare of Korean Americans across the region. The organization's most significant achievement—acquiring its own building in 1981 through grassroots community fundraising—demonstrated the power of collective action and remains a historic milestone as the first Korean American association to own its own facility in the United States. Today, KAAC continues this legacy by expanding its physical presence and resources to better serve the 150,000 Korean Americans living throughout Illinois. At its core, KAAC bridges generations and cultures, serving as an essential connection between the Korean American community and the broader American society while preserving and celebrating Korean heritage. The organization recognizes that community strength comes from collaboration, bringing together diverse Korean American organizations, businesses, and individuals to address shared challenges and celebrate shared successes. Through its work in Chicago, KAAC demonstrates how a dedicated community organization can foster cultural pride, advocate for member interests, and create meaningful partnerships that benefit both the Korean American community and the entire Chicagoland region for generations to come.
Nicholas Lee is a Shareholder at Bishop Diehl & Lee, Ltd.
Mr. Lee focuses his practice primarily on intellectual property law, with an emphasis on litigation, counseling and procurement. Specifically, Mr. Lee represents both domestic and international clients to enforce or defend against patent/trademark infringement, trade secret, unfair competition or other Intellectual Property related claims. Mr. Lee also represents clients on strategically developing their intellectual property portfolios. Mr. Lee has been recognized as a "Rising Star" by Illinois Super Lawyers in 2012, 2013, and 2014, a distinction given to less than three percent of attorneys in Illinois.
Prior to becoming an attorney, Mr. Lee worked for several years as an analytical chemist in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries specializing in separation technologies for natural and synthetic materials. Mr. Lee also worked as an associate in a boutique intellectual property firm in Chicago, and interned at a full service law firm (Kim & Chang) in Korea.
Mr. Lee received his J.D. from DePaul University College of Law in Chicago, Illinois in 2004. While in law school, Nick received a CALI award in Advanced Legal Writing. He received his dual Bachelor of Science degrees in biochemistry and chemistry from Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana in 1996.
Mr. Lee is admitted to practice in the State of Illinois and before the Supreme Court of the State of Illinois, U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado, the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals, and is registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Mr. Lee has also represented clients in various district courts in California, Oregon, Minnesota, New York, Virginia, Florida, Texas, Ohio, Indiana, Connecticut, just to name a few.
Mr. Lee is a member of the Illinois State Bar Association, Korean American Bar Association, International Association of Korean Lawyers, and the Korean-American Scientists and Engineers Association.
As a Korean-speaking Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I specialize in providing culturally responsive and affirming therapy for Korean and Korean American individuals and families. I understand the complexities of navigating mental health within the context of Korean cultural values, including family expectations, intergenerational dynamics, identity struggles, and the stigma often associated with seeking help.