With the 52nd LA Korean Festival (hereinafter referred to as the Korean Festival) just four weeks away, the LA Korean Festival Foundation (Chairman Alex Cha) has announced plans to closely collaborate with representatives from major Korean regional governments to ensure a successful event.

As booth sales for the festival are nearing completion and expected to sell out soon, the support of numerous global sponsors promises to make this year’s Korean Festival one of the most spectacular yet. The foundation is also prioritizing safety measures to accommodate the anticipated large crowds.

On the 15th, the foundation held a special meeting at its office with representatives from seven Korean regional governments to discuss preparations for a successful festival. Attendees included Sangtaek Kang, Director of the Gyeongsangnam-do LA Office; Seokki Kim, Director of the Gyeongsangbuk-do LA Office; Jeonghye Seo, Director of the Daegu Metropolitan City LA Office; Eunyoung Joo, Director of the Busan Metropolitan City LA Trade Office; Changsuk Moon, Director of the Jeollanam-do Americas Office; Kwangsoo Kim, Director of the Jeollabuk-do LA Liaison Office; and Won Choi, Director of the Chungcheongnam-do U.S. Office.

According to the foundation, the participants discussed various topics, including securing volunteers and personnel for the festival, as well as proactive measures to address safety and security concerns. The foundation also noted that it is working closely with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), the LA Mayor’s Office, and other city government agencies to ensure festival safety and support. This year’s festival will see participation from dozens of cities and counties across nine Korean provinces, including Jeju Special Self-Governing Province.

The 52nd Korean Festival is elevated by sponsorship from major global brands, including Airbnb, the world’s largest accommodation-sharing platform; US Bank, one of America’s top three banks; and Hyundai and Kia Motors. Additional support comes from LA County Metro, the LA Department of Cultural Affairs, and the Department of Recreation and Parks. A total of 292 diverse booths will be featured at this year’s festival, with 277 (94.8%) already sold as of the 17th. The remaining booths are mostly under contract, with many additional inquiries, and the foundation expects a complete sell-out soon, according to a festival office representative.

This year’s festival will offer a rich blend of traditional and modern Korean culture, including an Agricultural and Fisheries Expo, a Geobukseon (Turtle Ship) exhibition, performances by renowned artists such as the Yoon Do-hyun Band and Ha Hyun-woo, a K-pop contest led by Korean entertainment companies, a food festival, youth and senior events, and hands-on experiences with Korean traditional culture and crafts.Chairman Alex Cha stated, “Nearly 300 booths will showcase excellent Korean products, regional specialties, and abundant food from local vendors, alongside valuable information and resources provided by government and community partners.

”The 52nd LA Korean Festival, themed “Beyond Boundaries,” will take place over four days from October 16 to 19 at Seoul International Park. The highlight of the festival, the “Korean Parade,” will be held on Saturday, October 18, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., along Olympic Boulevard in the heart of Koreatown, promising a vibrant celebration.

By Hyungseok Han