The Korean American Chamber of Commerce LA (KACCLA), led by President Moon-chul Kwak, hosted a special roundtable meeting on the afternoon of the 5th, inviting former presidents to gather wisdom for overcoming the economic downturn and promoting the development of the Korean American community.
Held at the Gabbin Korean Restaurant, the roundtable brought together 16 former presidents, including 10th President Lee Chung-kwang, alongside Han Goon-seok, Lee Young-song, Lee Yong-ki, Lee Chang-yeop, Ha Ki-hwan, Kim Choon-sik, Jung Joo-hyun, Albert Chang, Jeon Seok-ho, Lee Eun, Park Sung-soo, Kim Bong-hyun, and Jung Dong-wan (in no particular order), who shared diverse ideas based on their past experiences.
In his opening remarks, President Kwak said, “Just seeing the senior leaders who experienced the early days of immigration and the riots all in one place gives me strength. I will listen carefully to their valuable advice and actively reflect it in the operation of the Chamber and future activities.”
Former President Lee Chung-kwang stated, “I am grateful that we can meet like this despite the difficult economy. I believe it is of great significance to be able to share opinions and thoughts not only publicly but also personally.”
Former Presidents Han Goon-seok and Lee Young-song added, “We are proud of the Chamber for accomplishing so much, such as compiling its 50-year history. Let us, as former presidents, step up to help the Chamber focus on its primary mission of supporting Korean American businesses.”
Ha Ki-hwan, who served as the 16th-17th and 41st-42nd president, emphasized, “Most small- and medium-sized business owners in Koreatown are going through a difficult time. This is a time when we must seek ways to support business owners through cooperation with external organizations.”
Former President Lee Chang-yeop elaborated, “I believe the LA City Government and District 10 are well aware of the concerns we have. If there are various programs to be introduced early next year, introducing them well and helping our community receive benefits is also a role of the Chamber.”
Former President Jeon Seok-ho proposed, “If possible, I suggest establishing a ‘Future Strategy Committee’ within the Chamber soon. While we must continue to do well with our daily activities, it would be wonderful if we could calmly and proactively prepare for future conditions.”
Albert Chang also stated, “I hope we can continuously push for the participation of young business owners, including the second generation. All board members should remain interested in this regardless of changes in the term.”
Former President Jung Sang-bong encouraged the attendees by saying, “The Chamber has now reached the starting point of another 50 years. The current economic downturn could become a process of testing various Korean American organizations. As a key economic organization, let us be more active.”
President Kwak explained, “Ultimately, the core advice from our seniors is that this is a time when multiple organizations must gather and put their heads together to create solutions. Already earlier this week at a gathering at the Consul General’s official residence, we closely discussed cooperating with the city government ahead of the Olympics. We must act first for the government to take notice."
The Chamber requested support from the Korean government for various promotional activities in Koreatown ahead of the Olympics during the aforementioned Consulate meeting.
Meanwhile, the Chamber plans to cooperate with Korean American organizations to establish an Olympic ‘Press Center’ in Koreatown and install LED symbolic structures to promote South Korea.
