The Austin Korean American community is currently witnessing a palpable surge in local business expansion and academic investment, directly reinforcing the Austin Korean Association's (AKA) core mission that "For the Korean community to thrive, Korean businesses must succeed."

This momentum is visible in the growth of local Korean-owned enterprises and strategic investments at the University of Texas at Austin, closely tied to the massive presence of Korean technology giants in Central Texas.

Korean Cuisine Expands to North Austin

A beloved local Korean business is significantly expanding its footprint, highlighting the growing demand for authentic Korean cuisine across the city:

  • Donkey Mo's Korean Fried Chicken has confirmed plans for a second brick-and-mortar location on Parmer Lane in North Austin.
  • The expansion is anticipated to open in April 2026 and will move into the former Brooklyn Pie Co space.
  • Donkey Mo's first gained a loyal following as a stall in the Lakeline H-Mart food court in 2018 before establishing its first brick-and-mortar location on Airport Boulevard in 2024.
  • AKA's Mission Connection: This successful expansion exemplifies the growth of Korean entrepreneurship in the Austin market, creating more local jobs and raising the profile of Korean American culture through its food.

UT Austin Secures Grant for Semiconductor Innovation

In a move that solidifies Central Texas's role as a high-tech manufacturing hub—largely due to Samsung's presence—the University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) has received a major grant to advance semiconductor technology:

  • $4.8 Million Grant Awarded: Governor Greg Abbott announced on December 10, 2025, that UT Austin has been awarded a $4.8 million grant from the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund (TSIF).
  • Establishment of QLab: The funding is specifically for the establishment of QLab, a quantum-enhanced semiconductor metrology facility. Metrology (measurement science) is identified by the U.S. Department of Commerce as the "key enabling technology" for the semiconductor industry.
  • Local Impact: State Senator Sarah Eckhardt noted that this facility will play a "pivotal role" in positioning the region to capitalize on growth in the semiconductor and quantum industries, bringing with it thousands of high-paying advanced manufacturing jobs.
  • AKA's Mission Connection: This direct investment in semiconductor R&D by the state is crucial for supporting the entire Korean-led semiconductor supply chain in Williamson County and ensuring the long-term success of major Korean corporate investments in our region.

Advisory for Korean Food Service Businesses

In light of recent local news, the AKA encourages all Korean food service business owners to review and strictly adhere to health and safety regulations:

  • It is critical to maintain up-to-date permits, proper food protection manager certifications, and the highest standards of sanitation compliance.
  • The AKA offers resources, including business support services and consulting, to help local Korean businesses overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. We urge all owners to utilize these resources to ensure the health and reputation of the entire Korean food service community.