Honoring Heritage Together. In May, we celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month by honoring the rich cultural contributions of the Korean American community. This month we hosted various impactful events including an intimate luncheon with Hawaii Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke, the highest-ranking Korean American in a U.S. statewide position, and a Book Talk with CKA Member Jeanie Y. Chang on her newly released book “How K-Dramas Can Transform Your Life.”
We also hosted two webinars: a Women’s Affinity Group webinar on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; and a Modern Love & Dating webinar, featuring notable figures like Jerome and Benita from Netflix’s “Love After Divorce 4,” Coffee Meets Bagel Co-Founder & Chief Dating Officer Dawoon Kang, and distinguished Professor and CKA Member Jerry Kang. Additionally, CKA supported community events like the Asian Parenting Seminar Series, themed “More Love, Less Drama”.
The 13th cohort of the Network of Korean American Leaders (NetKAL XIII) convened for the second time this month, and with the help of facilitators CKA Member Jim H. Lee and Courtney Jordan dove into the theme, “Leveraging Your Weaknesses as Strengths.” While we honor the stories of those who came before us, we also celebrate these Korean American leaders who are paving the way for a better future.
We also celebrate our members’ achievements, including Ed Park, a 2024 Pulitzer Prize Finalist, and other inspiring leaders. We hope you enjoy reading the member highlights in this newsletter, showcasing the remarkable accomplishments of CKA members.
Together, these events and accomplishments honor our Korean heritage within the CKA network and with other organizations and groups. By coming together to celebrate our shared history and support one another, we strengthen the bonds within our community and ensure that the stories and contributions of Korean Americans continue to inspire future generations.
Ed Park Named Pulitzer Finalist
CKA Member Ed Park‘s novel Same Bed Different Dreams has been named a finalist for the 2024 Pulitzer Prize. This prestigious recognition is a testament to Park’s literary prowess and his ability to weave intricate narratives that resonate on multiple levels.
The Pulitzer Prize judges praised Park’s work as “an inventive postmodern novel that moves from the brutal Japanese occupation of the Korean Peninsula to a lonely Korean American boy’s passion for the Buffalo Sabres.” They highlighted its ability to interlink narratives across historical and imaginary time zones with humor, sorrow, and irreverence.
In April, Same Bed Different Dreams received the Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Fiction, solidifying its place as a standout work in contemporary literature. The Fiction Judging Committee described the novel as a “phenomenal” and “multifarious reimagining of Korean and American history.”
As we honor Ed Park’s extraordinary achievements, we recognize his contribution to the literary world and his role in bringing diverse narratives to the forefront of contemporary fiction. His work not only enriches our understanding of Korean and American histories but also exemplifies the power of storytelling to bridge cultures and eras.
New Release: Mosaic of Minds Unveils the Ethical Dimensions of AI through Thought Leader Dialogues
CKA is thrilled to announce that Songyee Yoon has just released a captivating book titled “Mosaic of Minds.” This thought-provoking piece delves into the fascinating intersection of AI and Ethics, offering valuable insights from esteemed thought leaders in the field. It’s a journey through diverse perspectives that shape the ethical landscape of artificial intelligence today.
Transportation leader Davey S. Kim Writes Chapter in New Book, “The New Future of Public Transportation”
Davey S. Kim, a transportation executive for WSP USA and former California Secretary of Transportation, wrote a chapter on the future of transit funding for a new book, “The New Future of Public Transportation”. The gas tax has funded transportation programs and projects for decades – but it’s dying a slow death due to the rise of electric vehicles and improved fuel efficiency among gasoline-powered vehicles. What will replace the gas tax? Davey discusses the concept of a road usage charge (RUC) which would impose a fee based on how many miles are driven, not how many gallons of gas are purchased. Many states are testing RUC on a pilot basis, and it’s likely to replace the gas tax. If so, the future of transportation funding – and transit in particular – will change in a massive way.
NKGen Biotech Publishes Phase 1 Interim Analysis Results of SNK02 Allogeneic NK Cell Therapy in Advanced Solid Tumors
Paul Y. Song, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer at NKGen Biotech, Inc., announced an online publication of Phase 1 interim analysis results of SNK02 allogeneic NK cell therapy in advanced solid tumors at the 2024 ASCO Annual Meeting. SNK02 has the potential to be a first-in-class cryopreserved allogeneic NK cell therapy for solid tumors that does not require lymphodepletion before administration, which may lead to better overall synergy in future combination regimens with immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Isaac Yang Awarded 50K ANA Research Grant
UCLA Health Neurosurgeon and Professor Dr. Isaac Yang recently was awarded a Research grant from the Acoustic Neuroma Association to investigate the expression of tumor markers for this skull base brain tumor. This research work will advance his clinical care and surgery by identifying a new tumor marker as a therapeutic target for acoustic neuroma brain tumors.
Chloe Choi joins Aviditi Advisors as Principal
Chloe Choi recently joined Aviditi Advisors, an independent alternative advisory firm servicing global alternative investment managers and investors who allocate to the sector (private and public). Based in New York, she will be responsible for origination and leading capital advisory activities across asset classes. Congratulations, Chloe!
Junghoon Park Elected as Representatives-at-Large for the SIM Division
Junghoon Park has been elected as Representatives-at-Large for the SIM Division, AOM in this year’s Academy of Management elections. Junghoon has made significant contributions to SIM over the past few years by serving on various committees, providing mentorship, participating in committees and task forces, and organizing diverse consortia. Congratulations, Junghoon!
Tina Kim Interviewed by The Korea Times
Tina Kim, founder and director of Tina Kim Gallery, has been recognized by The Korea Times as a pioneer in introducing Korean art to an international audience. Kim, who serves as a board member for the Art Dealers Association of America, as a member of The European Fine Art Foundation (TEFAF), and on the selection committees for the Frieze Seoul, TEFAF Maastricht, and TEFAF New York art fairs, was interviewed about her efforts in putting Korean art on the global stage.
Jennifer Koh’s Inspiring Interview: Embracing Diversity and Equity in Classical Music
Jennifer Koh‘s interview with Rita Fernandez was featured in the recent issue of The Strad. In the article, Jennifer shared her realization that there is a responsibility for all of us to continue making classical music accessible and inclusive, so that everyone feels welcome in this community. She also emphasized the importance of putting in time and effort to fight for equity. To learn more about her insights, you can read the full article here.
Keynote by James Rhee on the Impact of AI
The Korea Society organized an engaging discussion titled “Changes, Challenges, and Chances in K-Startups amid the AI Era,” with keynote speaker James Rhee. This event brought together esteemed entrepreneurs, investors, and stakeholders from the Korean-American startup community to explore the evolving landscape influenced by advancements in AI technology. The conversations delved into the profound impact of AI on the startup ecosystem and aimed to develop strategies for harnessing its potential for innovation and growth.
Soo Kim Speaks With The Korea Society on North Korea’s New Posture
Soo Kim was a guest expert at The Korea Society’s April 25th Quick Take discussion on North Korea’s new posture following a series of developments in the DPRK’s foreign policy. Her interview with Jonathan Corrado, policy director at The Korea Society, unpacked North Korea’s weapons development, inter-Korean relations, and implications for US policy on North Korea amid the upcoming presidential election.
Randy Sim Moderates an Asia Society Texas & World Affairs Council Program on the South Korea-U.S. Alliance
The Asia Society Texas and the World Affairs Council of Greater Houston recently held a thought-provoking discussion, bringing together representatives from the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, the U.S. Department of State, and the Korean Economic Institute. This insightful conversation centered around highlighting the significance of the U.S.–South Korea alliance, exploring their deep-rooted connections, and discussing future prospects amidst challenges posed by China and North Korea. Leading this dialogue was Randy Sim as moderator with panelists Noah Shaw, Troy Stangarone, and Sung Hyun Nam sharing their expertise on these critical matters.
Kevin D. Kim Empowers the AA&NHPI Community at the First Economic Summit!
On May 7th, Commissioner Kevin D. Kim was honored to speak as a panelist for the first-ever 2024 Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders (AA&NHPI) Economic Summit at the Treasury Department to celebrate the AA&NHPI community and spotlight the important role the AA&NHPI community plays in our economy. The Summit marks a milestone for the Administration and the Treasury in its support for the AANHPI community and its efforts to build a stronger and more inclusive economy for all Americans.
Charles Jung Speaks at Stand With Asian Americans Workplace Justice Initiative Panel
Stand With Asian Americans announced the launch of their latest workplace justice initiative panel on shattering the myth of Asian passivity. Workplace discrimination is often difficult to report and resolve; the burden of proof is left on the employee. This includes having to deal with systemic barriers such as the model minority myth, which often pushes out Asian Americans from the DEI conversation despite facing a representation desert in tech jobs in Silicon Valley. Among the panelists was Civil Rights Attorney Charles Jung who explained that workplace discrimination may not be immediately obvious; hate is often insidious and hidden as “coded language,” realized through tropes and stereotypes that undermine Asian Americans and create an artificial cap on our progress.
Cooley Secures $34M Jury Verdict for Sight Sciences Against Alcon and Ivantis
Michelle Rhyu is delighted to announce the positive outcome of the recent trial in favor of Sight Sciences against Alcon and Ivantis. The jury unanimously agreed that the Defendants intentionally violated three valid patents held by Sight Sciences, resulting in a substantial award of $34 million for past damages. Cooley is honored to have represented this valued client, a company committed to advancing groundbreaking solutions for eye diseases.
Jennifer Lee Designed a Dream House for Her Mother
Architect Jennifer Lee embarked on a significant renovation project for her parents’ home alongside her husband and partner, Pablo Castro, from the New York City-based firm Obra Architects. The primary objective of this undertaking was to create a living space that would befit Jennifer’s parents as they enter their golden years. After almost three years of meticulous planning and execution, the renovation reached its completion in May 2023. Jisoo, Jennifer’s mother, has now settled comfortably into their newly renovated abode with Chong Doo, Jennifer’s father. While Jisoo has made great strides in recovering from COVID-19, it is uncertain if she will fully regain her pre-pandemic vitality. Nonetheless, she finds solace and joy in being able to witness all four seasons unfold right from the comfort of her transformed home.
Leo and Diana Kim Celebrate the Arrival of Baby Viktor (Vivi) Seung-Ri Kim
Leo and Diana Kim joyfully announce the arrival of their precious bundle of joy, Viktor (Vivi) Seung-Ri Kim, born on May 28th. We are delighted to share that both mother and baby are in excellent health. Congratulations, Leo and Diana!
Exploring DEI in a Post-SFFA v. Harvard Landscape
On April 29, 2024, CKA’s Women’s Affinity Group (WAG) led an inspiring conversation on the current state of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion following the Supreme Court ruling and subsequent challenges to DEI initiatives. Our esteemed panel featured Catharina Min, Partner at Covington & Burling LLP and WAG Co-Chair; Sumi Cho, Director of Strategic Initiatives at The African American Policy Forum; and Jeannie Park, Board Chair of the Korean American Community Foundation.The discussion was skillfully guided by Lisa Yang—CKA Board Member, WAG Co-Chair—and Partner at LimNexus LLP.
Together they delved into the implications of SFFA v. Harvard on our society today with a focus on how corporations are navigating its uncertain aftermath while educational institutions as well as nonprofits strive forward in promoting inclusivity in their practices.
The enlightening discussion highlighted the importance of continuing to have these critical conversations. CKA remains committed to fostering such discussions and promoting inclusivity within our own spaces and beyond. We thank our panelists and attendees for their valuable contributions.
Prioritizing Mental Wellness: May 2024 Asian Parenting Seminar Series
CKA proudly partnered with Catalyst Wellness Alliance for the May 2024 Asian Parenting Seminar Series, held in celebration of AAPI Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness. With the theme “More Love, Less Drama,” this impactful online series ran for one hour every Wednesday throughout May, focusing on fostering mental wellness within the community.
Two CKA members, Suzan Song and Jeanie Y. Chang, shared their insights during the sessions on May 22nd and May 29th, respectively. Their expertise contributed significantly to the discussions on achieving a more loving and drama-free approach to parenting. CKA Executive Director Abraham Kim and Managing Director Linda Butcher provided opening remarks for these sessions, emphasizing the importance of mental health in parenting and community well-being.
By promoting mental wellness and a loving approach to parenting, we advocate for the Korean American community and build connections with Asian American parents beyond our community. CKA is honored to have been part of this important series, celebrating the values of love and understanding in parenting.
In May, CKA Executive Director Abraham Kim traveled across the United States, from New York City to California to Washington D.C. and Virginia. He began the month by connecting with CKA Members and attending events that celebrate the contributions and spotlight the important issues facing the AANHPI community.
In our nation’s capital, Abe hosted an intimate luncheon with Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke, offering CKA members a unique opportunity to engage with a distinguished public servant. Lieutenant Governor Luke shared insights from her journey as a dedicated leader and expressed her profound connection to the Korean American community. While in D.C, Abe facilitated a thought-provoking book talk featuring CKA Member Jeanie Y. Chang and her new book, “How K-Dramas Can Transform Your Life.” The event, co-hosted with Korea Economic Institute of America, delved into the transformative power of Korean storytelling and its potential for fostering mental wellness.
Venturing to Virginia, Abe joined the NetKAL XIII cohort for a weekend retreat at Airlie, a renowned conference center. Under the guidance of NetKAL Alum & CKA Member Jim Lee, the cohort explored themes of identity, leadership styles, and teamwork dynamics. Through insightful discussions and experiential learning, participants gained valuable insights into effective leadership and cross-cultural engagement.
Amidst his travels, Abe also engaged virtually, providing opening remarks for the May sessions of the Asian Parenting Seminar Series, organized by the Catalyst Wellness Alliance. This online series focused on promoting mental wellness within the AAPI community.
As he traveled across the country and engaged in virtual opportunities, Abe remained steadfast in his commitment to empowering leaders, fostering unity, and promoting mental wellness within the AANHPI community.