The founding purpose of the Austin Korean Association (AKA)—to foster relationships, advocate for rights, and improve the quality of life for Korean-Americans—is the foundational principle that continues to drive us today. It is a mission deeply intertwined with our guiding motto: "For the Korean community to thrive, Korean businesses must succeed."
This core belief is why recent national discussions—like the powerful call for unity from K-Food pioneer Simon Kim and the impactful, tangible support provided by groups like the Korean American Community Foundation (KACF)—resonate so profoundly with the AKA's original vision.
The Economic Engine of Community Unity
When the AKA was established, it was in response to the essential need for a collective voice and a network of mutual support for a growing immigrant population. The organization's goal was not merely to celebrate individual Korean success but to create a shared foundation where every Korean American in Austin could thrive.
Simon Kim's current message, urging the community to move beyond individual competition and leverage its collective strength, perfectly captures the spirit of AKA’s founding. The accumulated success of Korean Americans in Austin, whether in K-Food, technology, or other ventures, must be channeled into the community’s overall well-being. This is where our motto takes root: Successful Korean businesses are recognized as the primary engine for this collective prosperity. They create jobs, foster innovation, and serve as the generous, visible leaders that fuel community stability.
Translating Prosperity into Quality of Life
The AKA plans to execute its mission of improving the quality of life and fostering relationships through a defined portfolio of service and support programs, similar to the model used by national organizations like KACF.
- Strategic Empowerment: The focus of groups like KACF on announcing significant grant cycles and fundraising successes to strengthen the economic security and support the needs of low-income Korean Americans is a powerful example of our shared mandate. The AKA's commitment to providing services in Austin is intended to elevate the community's overall economic stability. Our commitment to business success is an investment in our social safety net, ensuring that the wealth generated by our entrepreneurs circulates back to secure and improve the lives of all Korean Americans.
The AKA: A Platform for Lasting Impact
The AKA serves as the vital bridge, connecting the prosperity of our businesses with the critical needs of our community, while also fostering positive relationships with other ethnic groups in Austin to promote understanding and harmony.
When we, as a community, embrace the spirit of unity and use our collective resources to support organizations that strengthen economic security and provide vital services, we fulfill our commitment to our own people and strengthen the broader Austin community. The AKA remains the essential platform for achieving this mission. By prioritizing the success of our Korean-owned enterprises, we ensure the entire community has the resources, jobs, and leadership it needs to truly thrive and translate our celebrated accomplishments into lasting community empowerment.
