January launched with a commemoration of Korean American Day in Washington, D.C., honoring 123 years since the first Korean immigrants arrived in the U.S. This year we look forward to celebrating CKA’s 15th year, NetKAL’s 20th year, and the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
This month also marked a leadership transition as President Abraham Kim concluded seven impactful years at CKA, with Board Chairman Angela Killoren serving as Interim President until the new permanent president is announced.
As we look ahead, leadership gathered in Los Angeles to begin planning for the October 23-24, 2026 CKA Envision Gala & Summit, while celebrating members including Suzan Song, whose work on leadership, and healing reflects the spirit of this year.
CKA Member Suzan Song continues to reach readers navigating uncertainty through her writing platform, Beyond Stability, where she reflects on leadership, identity, and burnout in moments when stability is no longer guaranteed. Her essays draw from years of clinical work and advising in high-stakes environments, inviting readers to question the narratives that shape how they show up at work and in life.
In a recent essay, Suzan writes, “Burnout isn’t just about doing too much. It’s often about carrying an identity that no longer fits.” These ideas will be explored further in her forthcoming book, Why We Suffer and How We Heal. The book has been recognized as one of PRH’s Most Anticipated Nonfiction Books of 2026 and examines how people find clarity and grounding amid uncertainty. Suzan will host upcoming events in Takoma Park, DC (February 26 at People’s Book) and Ann Arbor, MI (March 6 at Literati Bookstore), continuing the conversation with community members in person.
| Celebrating Korean American Day and a Milestone Year |
| On January 13, CKA and the Korea Economic Institute of America convened leaders, policymakers, innovators, and community members in Washington, DC to commemorate 123 years since the arrival of the first Korean immigrants to the United States. The program honored Korean Americans’ enduring contributions while engaging in timely dialogue on artificial intelligence and innovation, and marked the start of a milestone year including CKA’s 15th anniversary, the 20th year of NetKAL, and the nation’s 250th anniversary. The evening featured opening remarks from CKA Board Chairman Angela Killoren and KEI President & CEO Scott Snyder, a fireside chat with CKA Member Songyee Yoon, Founder & Managing Partner at Principal Venture Partners, on the opportunities and responsibilities shaping the future of AI, and the presentation of the Korean American Day Award to Dr. Abraham Kim for his visionary leadership and decades of service to the Korean American community. The program highlighted Korean Americans’ vital role as cultural, economic, and diplomatic bridges strengthening U.S.–Korea relations while looking ahead to the future we continue to shape. |
