In a landmark win, Korean-American State Representative Cindy Ryu has achieved her 8th term in Washington State’s 32nd District House election, held on November 5. According to Washington’s Office of the Secretary of State, Ryu won with a significant lead, securing 44,392 votes compared to her Republican challenger, Lisa Rezac, who garnered 14,810 votes. As of 2:25 p.m. on November 7, Ryu held a commanding 74.87% of the vote, leaving Rezac at 24.98%, marking a nearly 3-to-1 margin.
Ryu’s achievement makes her the first Korean-American to serve eight terms in Washington State’s legislature. Previously, the highest record held by a Korean-American legislator in Washington was five terms, set by former State Senator Paull Shin.
Ryu’s political career includes previous roles as Shoreline City Councilmember and Mayor, where she made history as the first Korean-American female mayor in the U.S. She immigrated to America with her parents before turning ten and has been a resident of Washington for 53 years. Ryu holds a bachelor’s degree in microbiology and an MBA from the University of Washington.
Throughout her time in the Washington State House, Ryu has been known for championing small Korean-owned businesses, addressing challenges they face, and supporting initiatives like establishing “Kimchi Day” in Washington.
BY KYEONJUN KIM, YOUNGNAM KIM [kim.yeongjun1@koreadaily.com]
