During the ceremony, Assemblymember Gonzalez presented the year’s first certificate of recognition to President Ahn, extending his congratulations.
“I am grateful to represent the largest Korean American immigrant community in the world as a local politician,” Gonzalez stated. “I look forward to strengthening our collaboration with KAFLA to expand services for the Korean American community, including ID issuance and food assistance programs.”
Councilmember Hutt congratulated Ahn on his inauguration and expressed her willingness to cooperate. She highlighted her connection with Ahn, saying, “I know how deeply Ahn values the Korean American community. I will continue fostering a positive relationship and working closely with KAFLA.”
John Lee also shared his congratulations, remarking, “Before Ahn is the KAFLA President, he is also a good friend. I look forward to achieving great results together.”
Other notable attendees included Steve Kang, Commissioner of the LA Board of Public Works; Jeong Dong-wan, President of the LA Korean American Chamber of Commerce; Ben Park, President of the Korean American Law Enforcement Organization; Brian O’Connor, Captain of the Olympic Division Police Station; and David Kwak, President of the Dosan Ahn Chang Ho Memorial Foundation, among others.
President Ahn emphasized transformation and outlined his aspirations for the Korean American community in his New Year’s speech.
“I will contribute to the Korean American community without generational distinctions,” Ahn said. “As a second-generation Korean American, I will approach my duties with a heart to serve the first generation who have dedicated so much.”
He added, “We will expand practical, community-centered services to provide real support.”
Former KAFLA presidents also attended the ceremony to encourage Ahn. Among them were James Ahn, the new president’s father and former KAFLA president, as well as former presidents Laura Jeon and Jang Sung-gil, who celebrated the organization’s new beginning.
Speaking at the event, Laura Jeon expressed optimism about the next generation of Korean American leaders. “I look forward to seeing second-generation leaders like Ahn guide the community forward,” she said. “This represents a positive change, and the first generation supports and acknowledges the second generation as leaders of the Korean American community.”
Meanwhile, Consul General Youngwan Kim of the Korean Consulate in LA was unable to attend due to the national mourning period in Korea following a recent plane crash in Muan County.
BY KYEONGJUN KIM [kim.kyeongjun1@koreadaily.com]
