Connecting Culture,
Connecting People
The Atlanta Korean American Association has served as a bridge for generations and cultures, working to protect the rights of Korean Americans, offer meaningful support, and help build a healthy and thriving community throughout Georgia.
Our Story —
Timeline of Growth
1968
The Beginning
On October 3, 1968 (National Foundation Day of Korea), the Atlanta Korean American Association was founded at Decatur YMCA.
1970-1980
Growth and Expansion
As the Korean community expanded in Atlanta and the surrounding region, the association grew rapidly to meet the needs of the community.
1981
Korean School Established
The Atlanta Korean School opened under the leadership of the Association, helping preserve language and heritage for future generations
1990s
Rising as a Community Hub
Following major events like the Olympic Games, the Korean community in the Southeast took on a more prominent role, and the Association became central to community life.
1998
Community Development
The community continued to grow, and the Association strengthened its role as a cultural and support organization.
2013
Fire at the Old Korean Association Center
The historic Korean Association building in Doraville was lost to fire, a moment that deeply affected the community.
2014
New Community Center
Through generous community support and fundraising, plans began for a larger Korean community center — one of the largest of its kind — reflecting the Association’s long-lasting impact.
2026
Today
Under its 36th leadership term, led by President Eun-Seok Park, the Atlanta Korean American Association continues to bring the community together through cultural celebrations like the Korean Festival and a variety of community-centered activities.
Remembering Our Leaders
We honor the leaders who have shaped our journey and guided the Association throughout the years. Their dedication and service remain a fundamental part of our legacy.
Founding Leaders:
Soon-Eung Kim, Jong-Soo Byun, Hee-Seok Moon, Joon-Hee Song, Yong-Yeon Hwang
1980s–1990s Leaders:
Bong-Ho Lee, Nak-Young Ahn, Suk-Young Kang, Chang-Myung Kim, Joon-Hee Song
11th–15th Leaders:
Suk-Young Kang (Re-elected), Hak-Bong Kim, Sun-Geun Park, Sang-Ho Lee, Joon-Nam Lee
16th-20th Leaders:
Soo-Il Bae, Jin-Ho Park, Soo-Woong Ahn, Kwang-Hyun Kim, Chil-Young Sohn
21st-25th Leaders:
Young-Don Choi, Seung-Nam Lee, Seok-Hee Lee, Kyung-Hwan Kim, Baek-Gyu Kim
26th-30th Leaders:
Do-Hyun Kim, Young-Sup Park, Jong-Kuk Eun (Re-elected), Eui-Seok Kim
31st-35th Leaders:
Young-Rok Oh, Ki-Sung Bae, Il-Hong Kim, Yoon-Chul Kim, Hong-Gi Lee * Former President Yoon-Chul Kim (34th term) was stripped of his full membership status by the Atlanta Korean Association Board of Directors in March 2022.
(Source: 40 Years of the Southeast Korean Community)
Recent Leaders:
Eun-Seok Park
