Introducing New Board Chair and Executive Director

We would like to share exciting news for the organization.

First, the new Board Chair for 2022 is Zu Kim, a long-time supporter and volunteer with KRC. His leadership will be focused on building support for the mission, through cultural education, mobilization, and traditional practices that reflect the history and transformation of the Korean community in Southern California.

Hanjin Kim, KRC’s new Executive Director

Second, Hanjin Kim was appointed as the new Executive Director. Hanjin’s personal relationship to KRC began when his parents, members of the organization in the early 90's, brought their sons to many meetings, service activities, and mobilizations for justice. Hanjin was inspired to join KRC as its Executive Director out of his love for poongmul (an art form that was introduced to him during his childhood). He reflects, “As a kid I was bored being at KRC waiting for my parents in endless meetings with the other adults. But at KRC, I learned poongmul — Korean traditional drumming; and this is my passion. It connects me to my heritage, and provides a lifeline to my roots.”

Third, KRC’s board has committed itself once again to being in service to the immigrant and seniors who are on limited incomes and have many barriers — including language — to services for which they are eligible. The decision of the board is to move forward with a focus on our roots, justice, harmony. The first event that will be publicly led by Han is a lunar new year procession through Koreatown, with youth and alumni of poongmul clubs that Han has supported as Instructor over the years. They will be playing and offering good wishes for health and prosperity in the new year to shop owners in the area. The date is February 12 and details of the activity will be shared next week.