Korean American Foundation Hawaii

The Korean American Foundation Hawaii (KAFH) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Korean culture, heritage, and history throughout Honolulu and the broader Hawaiian community. Since its establishment in 1999 as the Centennial Committee of Korean Immigration to the United States, KAFH has evolved into a comprehensive cultural and educational institution serving the needs of Korean Americans and those interested in Korean heritage.

KAFH provides a wide range of community-focused programs and initiatives designed to celebrate and preserve Korean American contributions to American society. The organization maintains the Centennial Monument at Pawaa In-Ha Park and Puuiki Cemetery in Waialua, commemorates historic sites through dedicated plaques, and sponsors significant community events including the annual Korean Festival. These efforts ensure that the legacy of the first Korean immigrants who arrived on January 13, 1903, remains visible and honored in Hawaii.

Beyond historical preservation, KAFH actively supports the local community through awards, scholarships, and grants for mission-related projects. The organization annually commemorates Korean American Day on January 13, a date designated by Congress in 2005 to recognize the arrival of the first Korean immigrants to the United States. Through educational activities, cultural events, and community engagement, KAFH continues its mission to enhance appreciation for Korean culture while strengthening connections within the Honolulu Korean American community and encouraging broader cultural understanding.