Austin's connection to Korea continues to deepen this fall with a diverse slate of events focused on cultural exchange, professional networking, and academic study. As Central Texas welcomes major Korean corporations, the local community is fostering opportunities for engagement and education across the city.
Culture and Education on Campus
The University of Texas at Austin is offering direct engagement with Korean cinema this October, while the Austin Asian Resource Center (AARC) hosts key cultural discussions:
- Korean Film Screening Series (October 17 & November 21): The Center for East Asian Studies at UT Austin is hosting its Fall 2025 Korean Film Screening Series, focusing on the rich history and culture of the Joseon Dynasty era. The screening on Friday, October 17, 2025, from 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, will feature the 1993 film Seopyeonje (서편제) by Im Kwon-Taek. The series, which includes light refreshments and a group discussion, will also feature a screening on Friday, November 21, 2025.
- Hyphenated Book Club (October 16): The AARC's Hyphenated Book Club, which focuses on literature by Asian American authors, will hold its October meet-up on Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM. The book for the final meet-up of the series is Isha, Unscripted by Sajni Patel.
- Cultural & Identity Talks: The AARC is also hosting programs like "Being and Belonging: Representation" on October 28, 2025, and "Being and Belonging: Diaspora" on December 2, 2025.
High-Level Business Exchange with Korea
Reflecting the economic ties driven by companies like Samsung and SK hynix, the Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce (GAACC) is facilitating a major international trip this month:
- Business With Korea 2025 Delegation Trip (October 11 –17): The GAACC and the Williamson County Economic Development Partnership are hosting a delegation trip to South Korea. The trip, which departs Austin on Saturday, October 11, and arrives in Seoul on Sunday, October 12, is designed to build relationships and connect with business opportunities.
- KeyKey Meetings: Delegates will visit premier economic hubs including Seoul, Gwangmyeong, and Yongin Special City. The itinerary includes meetings with key government and economic development agencies (like KOTRA, KITA, and KOCCA) and a briefing at the U.S. Embassy. The delegation will also participate in a tourist visit to the DMZ before departing on October 17.
Broader AAPI Community Events
The momentum extends to larger community celebrations throughout the fall:
- ATX MOON FESTIVAL: A family-friendly Moon Festival is scheduled for October 2025 at MT Supermarket.
- Diwali Celebration: The AAPI Cultural Center at Austin Community College will host a vibrant Diwali celebration on Saturday, October 25, 2025, featuring Indian folk and classical dance and traditional music.
