A brand new celebration of Korean culture unfolded in Rancho Cordova on Saturday as the inaugural Sacramento Korean Cultural Festival drew a strong turnout and offered attendees an opportunity to experience the richness of Korean traditions.
Co-hosted by the Sacramento Valley Korean American Community and featuring participation from the Korean School Sacramento Junior Volunteer (KSSJV) group, the festival transformed the KP International Market parking lot into a gathering place for cultural performances, community connection, and shared pride. Hosted at the bustling KP International Market, the festival showcased traditional music, dance, food, and history while honoring 104-year-old James Lee (Lee Ha-jeon), a living hero of Korea’s independence movement.
“This is not just a festival for Koreans, but for all residents of Rancho Cordova, Sacramento and beyond,” said Mona Lee, president of the Sacramento Korean American Association, in her opening remarks. “Today, we come together to celebrate the beauty and richness of Korean culture, but also to foster connections, understanding and unity among diverse communities. Let us celebrate, appreciate and take pride in the diversity that strengthens us all.”
The event featured a lineup of local officials, state representatives, and community leaders, each underscoring the importance of cultural exchange and unity.
Councilmember Linda Budge of Rancho Cordova emphasized the city’s strong relationship with the Korean American community. “Over 30 years ago, we started growing the Korean American business community here in Rancho Cordova, and today, about 67 percent of the Korean American-owned businesses in Sacramento County are here,” she said. “We treasure our relationships with this Korean community and congratulate Mona and all her colleagues who have brought this event here to celebrate.”
California State Sen. Dr. Stephen Choi, who traveled from Orange County for the event, highlighted the festival’s broader significance. “Events like this remind us that when we embrace each other’s cultures, we deepen our understanding, strengthen our communities, and create space for joy and learning,” he said.
Dr. Jonathan Kim, president of the Korean Community Center of San Francisco and the Bay Area, added a national perspective. “As the Korean Consul General, I am committed to supporting events like this that celebrate and promote cultural exchange,” he said. “This year is very special for Koreans. We are celebrating the 80th anniversary of Korea’s Liberation Day. Events like this honor our past and inspire future generations to carry forward the legacy of Korean culture and values.”
Lea Park Kim, representing Sen. Roger Niello, called the festival an example of community spirit. “This is an amazing event filled with great people, great community, and learning opportunities,” she said.
Teresa Chao-Rother, speaking on behalf of Sacramento City Councilmember Phil Pluckebaum, noted the city’s pride in its Korean American residents. “Sacramento is proud to be a home for a vibrant Korean community that brings so much to our city,” she said.
Jounghye Rhi, president of the World Korean Women’s Network, also praised the cultural and emotional impact of the day. “The Korean Cultural Festival will establish itself as a valuable event in Sacramento, rich with traditional cultural experiences and a variety of delicious foods,” she said. “I trust that it will serve as an opportunity for hope and joy to flow into our community.”
Cultural performances dazzle visitors
The festival featured a variety of cultural experiences, including traditional Korean music, taekwondo demonstrations, and a choral performance led by Professor Kim Il-yeon, director of the Sacramento Korean Choir.
The day included a range of performances and interactive activities that drew families and visitors from across the region. Guests observed the traditional Janggu drum dance, a Sanggomu fan performance, and martial arts demonstrations by Legend Martial Arts and Na Taekwondo. A flash mob and a Hanbok Runway added a blend of traditional and modern styles.
Contemporary performances also had a place in the program, including a K-pop competition featuring local youth performers. Raffles held throughout the day offered prizes as part of the broader festivities.
In the afternoon, students from the Korean School Sacramento Junior Volunteer (KSSJV) group—young leaders dedicated to cultural preservation and community service—were recognized with a State of California Senate Certificate of Recognition, presented by Sen. Choi. The students also produced a printed newsletter for the event, providing attendees with insight into their volunteer work and event planning efforts.
Visitors explored a marketplace, participated in traditional Korean games, and sampled a variety of Korean dishes. The festival’s combination of cultural demonstrations, cuisine, and interactive exhibits created an engaging experience that highlighted both the historical and contemporary aspects of Korean culture in the Sacramento region.
ByungJo Yu, known better as “BJ,” owner of KP International Market, which hosted the event, expressed gratitude to the community for its support. “I made this market so we can exchange food culture,” Yu said. “This kind of event is really, really a lot of work, so I really appreciate President Mona and all the members and volunteers. Let’s celebrate!”
Honoring 104 year old Korean hero James Lee
A highlight of the festival was the recognition of James Lee (Lee Ha-jeon), a 104-year-old Korean independence activist and the only surviving member of Korea’s independence movement residing abroad. Born in 1921 in Pyongyang, North Korea, Lee’s lifelong dedication to Korean liberation and education was celebrated with the proclamation of “James Lee Day” in Sacramento.
During his youth, Lee organized a secret reading society to promote national pride and resistance to Japanese colonization. His activism continued during his university years in Tokyo, where he supported the independence movement despite the risks. In 1941, Lee was arrested and sentenced to two and a half years in prison under Japan’s Peace Preservation Law.
After Korea’s liberation in 1945, Lee continued to contribute to society as a professor and author, publishing works such as Naked Dance of Adam’s Descendants and Following the Light. In 1990, he was awarded the Order of Merit for National Foundation Patriotic Medal by the president of South Korea for his contributions to the country’s independence.
“His extraordinary life and achievements remind us of the resilience and contributions of the Korean American community,” said Mona Lee, prior to presenting a resolution signed by Sen. Niello and Assemblymember Joe Patterson. The document commended Lee for his “lifetime of achievements and meritorious service to the community,” describing him as “a legendary figure who is admired by people throughout the State of California and beyond.”
First time event a success
As the festival came to a close, it was apparent that the inaugural event had been a successful celebration of Korean culture and community in the Sacramento region.
The Sacramento Valley Korean American Community is a nonprofit organization committed to promoting the interests, unity, and cultural identity of Korean Americans in the greater Sacramento area. With a mission rooted in civic engagement, cultural education, and community support, the organization serves as a vital link between Korean Americans and the broader community. It also offers essential services including immigration and legal support, senior assistance, and programs that connect generations through cultural events, language education, and volunteerism.
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Note: Folsom Times would like to thank the Sacramento Valley Korean American Community for inviting us to be part of your inaugural event and for your hospitality.