Starting January 1 next year, Robert Ahn, the incoming president of the Korean American Federation of Los Angeles (KAFLA), is envisioning a concept he calls “KAFLA 2.0.”
At its core, this initiative aims to increase participation from second-generation Korean Americans while fostering collaboration with the first generation. Ahn also plans to transform the organization into one that actively contributes to advancing the political influence of the Korean-American community.
The following are edited excerpts from an interview with Ahn about his plans as president.
– Have you finalized your leadership appointments?
“We’re still working on it. First, Steve Kang, Commissioner of the LA Board of Public Works, will take on the role of board chair for KAFLA starting next year. He has done significant work for the Korean-American community and has an extensive network. For board members, we’re considering 1.5- and second-generation Korean Americans. We’re seeking individuals from various industries, including former LA city government officials, IT sector, and healthcare. Through this, we aim to expand KAFLA’s activities and networks.”
– What kind of KAFLA do you envision?
“The Korean-American community is currently undergoing a generational shift. In line with this trend, KAFLA will act as a bridge between generations. We want to enable the next generation of Koreans to contribute to the community’s development and serve the first generation. We hope to demonstrate that KAFLA is an organization for all Korean Americans, regardless of generation.”
– What areas in KAFLA need improvement?
“We plan to diversify and strengthen public services. Many Korean Americans are unaware of how to resolve administrative issues. Language barriers and the complexity of bureaucratic procedures make access difficult. By strengthening relationships with LA City and County, we will work to raise awareness of the community’s challenges, simplify processes, and host workshops to deliver accurate information to Korean Americans.”
– What are the major issues facing the Korean-American community in LA?
“Crime is rampant not only in Koreatown but across LA County, and many Korean Americans are deeply concerned about safety and security. Additionally, government support for the Korean-American community is lacking. Many Korean-American seniors fall below the poverty line, but funding for their support is insufficient. Housing is another issue, with rising rent costs and a lack of affordable housing for low-income families.”
– What are the solutions?
“We will collaborate with law enforcement agencies such as the LA County District Attorney’s Office, LAPD, and LA County Sheriff’s Department to help ensure crimes against Korean Americans are addressed swiftly and to minimize wrongful victimization. Additionally, we will work to simplify procedures for applying for low-income housing and housing-related financial services, ensuring that Korean Americans receive adequate guidance. To achieve this, strengthening the community’s political influence is essential.”
– How do you plan to enhance political influence?
“KAFLA will take the lead in building political influence of the Korean-American community. We plan to establish communication channels with both Korean-American and non-Korean-American politicians at the city, state, and federal levels to address issues facing the Korean community and seek support. Strengthening collaboration with the media is also critical. We will maintain dialogue with Korean-American media to communicate the need for political empowerment within the community and use mainstream media to amplify the voices of Korean Americans beyond the community. Additionally, we will actively encourage Korean Americans’ voter participation. Votes are a critical element of political power. We need to show mainstream society that the Korean-American vote can influence election outcomes.”
– Do you plan to enter politics after serving as president?
“Not at all. I did not take on this role to pursue a political career. The Korean-American community has grown this much thanks to the first generation, and I wanted to give back as president. I also want to encourage greater participation from second and third-generation Koreans. KAFLA is an organization with immense potential. I will strive to make it a group that not only represents but also protects the Korean-American community effectively.”
BY KYEONGJUN KIM [kim.kyeongjun1@koreadaily.com]
