The 52nd annual LA Korean Festival, backed by robust support from the LA city government and the office of Councilmember Heather Hutt (10th District), which oversees Koreatown, is set to establish itself as a leading cultural event in the city.
The LA Korean Festival Foundation (hereinafter the Festival Foundation) held a press conference on June 26, 2025, at its office, where high-ranking city officials, including Councilmember Heather Hutt, Steve Kang, Chair of the LA Public Works Commission, Jimmy Kim, Director of the LA Parks Department, and Chris Concepcion, Deputy Director of the LA Department of Cultural Affairs, officially announced that this year’s festival will benefit from unprecedented institutional support and collaboration from the city government.

Scheduled for four days from October 16 to 19 at Seoul International Park in Koreatown, the 2025 LA Korean Festival’s theme is “Beyond Boundaries,” symbolizing a platform for cultural, generational, and regional exchange and inclusivity. On Saturday, October 18, the festival’s highlight, the 52nd “Korean Parade,” will take place along Olympic Boulevard in the heart of Koreatown, showcasing the Korean community’s stature and multicultural harmony in a grand display.

This year’s festival holds added significance with Steve Kang, a high-ranking Korean-American official in the LA city government, serving as the event chair, and Councilmember Heather Hutt of the 10th District taking on the role of honorary ambassador.

Councilmember Hutt stated, “LA is a city of diversity, and the Korean Festival transcends a mere event—it celebrates the dedication and culture of the Korean community. We are actively supporting efforts like installing promotional banners, securing road permits, and facilitating park usage approvals to ensure visitors can freely explore and enjoy Korean culture.”

Chair Steve Kang remarked, “The theme ‘Beyond Boundaries’ is more than a slogan; it represents a true message of unity that transcends cultural, generational, and community divides. As LA prepares to host various global events, I hope this year’s Korean Festival will bring joy, hope, and solidarity not only to our Korean community but to the entire city.”

Jimmy Kim, a Korean-American leading the LA Parks Department, expressed, “As a second-generation Korean who grew up watching the Korean Festival, I’m deeply honored to now contribute directly. I hope this year’s event will help the younger generation understand their roots.”

According to the Festival Foundation, the 10th District Council office will provide 200 street banners for promotion, doubling last year’s 100 and equivalent to approximately $50,000 in value. The office will also cover 50% of the costs for temporary road closures and park usage permits. Additionally, the LA Department of Cultural Affairs will promote the festival through its official website, newsletters, and social media.

Turtle Ship Exhibit… Diverse Booths and Performances
Councilmember Hutt is also pushing for the LA Department of Cultural Affairs to fund the installation of major festival structures, such as booth tents, with an estimated value of around $220,000, though the exact amount is yet to be finalized.
The festival will feature 291 booths offering diverse content. A replica of the 500-year-old Joseon Dynasty turtle ship, a symbol of naval prowess, will be exhibited. The main stage will host performances by prominent K-pop artists, including Yoon Do-hyun Band, Ha Hyun-woo, BBGIRLS, DinDin, and Jo Jung-min, alongside various programs. Festival Foundation President Alex Cha noted, “Over 80% of the booths are already sold, reflecting tremendous participation. This event will be a chance for Korean businesses to showcase our culture and pride across LA.”

With high-ranking city officials actively supporting the LA Korean Festival, expectations are high for an elevated event and a strengthened partnership between the city government and the Korean community.

By Hyungseok Han