K-Town Cool: The Korean Diaspora

Los Angeles has the largest Korean population outside of the Korean Peninsula. We explore the social, cultural, and political nuances of the genesis and development of the Korean community in Los Angeles. We explore identity and community through different immersions.

Learning Objectives

Develop an understanding of Korean culture; its values, traditions, and rituals, through an examination of the Korean Diaspora in LA.

Building historical context of immigration in the 20th century, including the geopolitical and economic factors that led to Korean emigration and the establishment of a large KoreaTown in LA.

Experiencing the multiculturalism of Los Angeles and in KoreaTown, charting the distinct cultural influences evolving and shaping what it means to be Korean or experience Korean culture in LA.

Places and Activities

This program is flexible, and can be offered in 3, 5, or 7 day itineraries.

Days 1-2: Getting our Bearings

After arriving in LA, the students then hike to the Griffith Observatory to understand the vast expanse of the city. Also including a KoreaTown slow-looking walk and introductory workshops at the Korean Cultural Center.

Days 2-4: Art and Cuisine

Enjoying a traditional Korean dinner at Dong II Jong, a shopping exercise and empathy interviewing at KoreaTown Plaza mall. Students also participate in a street art tour and enjoy a karaoke night!

Days 5-6: Identity and History

Through a walking tour, the history of the LA riots is learned. Experiencing an evening traditional dance performance, a K-Pop Dance class and even a classical cultural experience at the Korean Wi Spa for some relaxation.

Day 7: Closing the Loop

Celebrating the end of the program with a debrief at Santa Monica Pier and Korean cooking class, before heading home.

Lenses of Inquiry

The Immigrant Experience

How has Korean-American’s individual and collective perception of their identity changed across generations?

Korean Cuisine

How do the traditions of gathering and eating differ from my own culture?

Multiculturalism and Traditions

How does Korean culture in LA differ from Korean culture in Seoul?

Let’s work together

“The Envoys Staff were exceptionally committed to us and to the goals of our trip. They were thoughtful, kind, caring, friendly, with great sense of humor, yet serious in their connection to the ethos of professional development that was our trip’s purpose. I was struck over and over again by how they literally RAN to be in the right place to respond to any given situation.”

— Constance , Traveling Faculty, Friends Seminary Colombia 2016

“I could not have been more satisfied with the performance of Envoys throughout the entire process of planning and executing this trip. All Envoys staff demonstrated the utmost professionalism and dedication, as well as knowledge and competence. I am so glad that [we] chose to partner with Envoys!”

— Rick S. , Traveling Faculty, Hingham Japan 2015

“Envoys was at the top of their game from start to finish. What initially interested me was their focus on curriculum during pre-departure meetings and the program itself. Envoys cares deeply about the experience of the participants and faculty. [They] constantly ask for constructive criticism and make changes when necessary.”

— Joe Vogel , Executive Director, Global Education Benchmark Group