MCLEAN, Va. — On a remarkable evening that will be remembered for years to come, the Korean Community Service Center of Greater Washington (KCSC) hosted its 51st Annual Gala. It was an unforgettable celebration of heritage, service and hope for the future.

KCSC was founded in 1974 by the Rev. Yong Chul Chung and members of his congregation to assist new immigrants from South Korea. This year’s theme “Bridging Generations, Empowering the Future,” resonated deeply as more than 550 guests filled the ballroom at the McLean Hilton in Fairfax County on Sunday night, marking the highest number of attendees in the organization’s history! A true testament to the growth, impact, unity, and strength of the Korean American community in the DC Metro area, which is now the third-largest Korean American community in the United States.

WUSA9 anchor Annie Yu served as emcee for the second year in a row.

The energy in the room was inspiring as it was filled with families, leaders, youth, and elders, each with their own story, yet bound by a shared purpose. Even more powerful – two moving keynote speeches from celebrity chef, author and restaurateur Edward Lee and Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of FiscalNote Tim Hwang.  Both Lee and Hwang spoke candidly about their journey and shared heartfelt reflections on identity, heritage and the importance of preserving culture through connection and investing in the next generation. 

Congratulatory remarks were given by dignitaries and leaders, including South Korean Consul General Cho Ki-Joung, KCSC Chairman Jina Kim, Vice Chairman Dr. John Kim and KCSC’s Executive Director, Ji-Young Cho, among others.

The work KCSC does every day stood at the heart of the celebration. From providing social services and mental health support to empowering immigrants, seniors and youth through education, language access and advocacy, KCSC continues to be a pillar in the community, meeting people where they are and walking with them toward a better future.

A meaningful evening, celebrating past achievements and also the bright path ahead, reminding all of us of what’s possible when a community comes together to lift each other up. As KCSC sets its sights on the next 51 years, they are committed to fulfilling its mission as a trusted organization, continuing to grow alongside the Asian immigrant community.

Here’s to the 51 years of service and to the future!