This historic context study is part of a larger investigation of the Asian American experience and impact in Washington, DC.

This study examines the migration, network building, and community development of Korean Americans in Washington, D.C. It covers the period from the mid-1880s to the early 1990s, spanning a historical period when Koreans traveled to the United States for diplomatic activities to the formation of a multigenerational community of residents, institutions, and businesses in the city and nearby suburbs. The study led to the nomination of the Old Korean Legation to the National Register of Historic Places and to an amendment to the status of the Union Market Historic District.

This material was produced with assistance from the Underrepresented Communities Grant Program from the Historic Preservation Fund, administered by the National Park Service, Department of the Interior. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of the Interior.

Explore a StoryMap of this history to learn more.