Korean American Foundation

The Korean American Foundation (KAF) is a Los Angeles, CA-based charitable organization dedicated to strategic philanthropy and community grant distribution. Since its incorporation in October 2018, KAF has established itself as a trusted steward of charitable funds, awarding over $2.59 million in grants to 53 vetted nonprofits serving vulnerable and marginalized populations. The Foundation operates with three core pillars: cultivating philanthropy through responsible resource stewardship with integrity and accountability; improving lives by serving vulnerable populations with dedicated attention to Korean American community needs; and strengthening communities by enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of community-based organizations doing critical work. KAF's mission-driven approach prioritizes maximum grant distribution and long-term impact over administrative overhead, guided by a pragmatic management team and dedicated volunteer Boards and Partners. The Foundation recognizes the unique challenges facing Los Angeles's Korean American community—home to 230,000 people of Korean descent, representing over one-fifth of the nation's entire Korean population and the largest urban concentration outside Korea. KAF addresses critical gaps including limited English proficiency and linguistic isolation that prevent Korean Americans from accessing essential resources. Through transparent, efficient grant-making and community partnerships, the Foundation fosters a culture of philanthropy rooted in both Korean and American traditions while uplifting the vulnerable and creating lasting community change.