LA Korean American chamber seeks business aid partnerships, Olympic plans

The Korean American Chamber of Commerce LA brought together former presidents Thursday to discuss help for businesses facing an economic downturn and preparations for the Olympics, according to Korea Daily. The newspaper reported that 16 former presidents attended the afternoon roundtable at Gabbin Korean Restaurant.

The discussion focused on connecting Koreatown businesses with outside organizations and potential government assistance. Former leaders also urged the chamber to plan for changing business conditions and draw younger entrepreneurs into its work.

Former Chamber President Ha Ki-hwan said many small and midsize businesses in Koreatown were struggling and urged partnerships with outside organizations to assist them, Korea Daily reported.

Former President Lee Chang-yeop suggested helping community members access any programs that the Los Angeles city government and District 10 might introduce early next year. His recommendation concerned potential programs, rather than assistance already announced.

Former President Jeon Seok-ho proposed creating a Future Strategy Committee to prepare for future conditions alongside the chamber’s regular work. Former President Albert Chang called for continued outreach to younger and second-generation business owners, regardless of leadership changes.

Han Goon-seok and Lee Young-song, both former presidents, praised the chamber’s compilation of its 50-year history and urged support for its business-assistance mission. Chamber President Moon-chul Kwak said he would incorporate former leaders’ recommendations into operations and future activities.

Kwak also said a gathering earlier in the week at the consul general’s official residence addressed cooperation with city government ahead of the Olympics. At that meeting, the chamber sought Korean government support for promotional activities in Koreatown, according to Korea Daily.

The chamber plans to work with Korean American organizations on an Olympic Press Center in Koreatown and LED symbolic structures promoting South Korea, Korea Daily reported.