As we welcome 2025, the Year of the Blue Snake-a symbol of wisdom and transformation-I extend my heartfelt wishes for a year filled with success, health, and happiness for you and your loved ones.
In 2023, six visionary Korean entrepreneurs from the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia area came together to establish the AKBFF, united by a mission to foster grassroots economic exchange and cooperation between the U.S. and Korea. In just two years, our organization has flourished into a vibrant community of about 20 member companies spanning diverse industries such as law, finance, healthcare, education, manufacturing, retail, real estate, and hospitality. Together, we remain steadfast in our commitment to advancing our businesses, strengthening our local communities, and nurturing the bonds between American and Korean entrepreneurs.
Reflecting on 2024, AKBFF focused on fortifying our internal structure, deepening unity among members, and amplifying our presence both locally and globally. In 2025, we aim to build on these achievements by prioritizing the enhancement of our members’ competitiveness in this dynamic and ever-evolving landscape. To achieve this, we plan to introduce specialized programs, such as courses tailored for the AI-driven era, and host regular forums that provide actionable insights and practical knowledge.
Additionally, we will expand opportunities for exchange and collaboration between American and Korean entrepreneurs. For Korean businesses looking to enter the U.S. market, we will provide localized resources and dedicated support from our base in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area. Similarly, for Korean-American entrepreneurs in the DMV area seeking to engage with Korean companies, we will work diligently to connect them with ideal partners, ensuring AKBFF remains a reliable and invaluable resource.
AKBFF represents a collective of American Dreamers, transforming challenges into success stories in the nation’s capital and its surrounding regions. Through resilience and innovation, Koreans-once considered outsiders-have built a respected and thriving immigrant community at the heart of the DMV area. This enduring spirit serves as the foundation of AKBFF’s identity and the driving force behind each member’s contributions.
As we enter 2025, the Year of the Blue Snake also marks a generational shift. Sixty years ago, in 1965, the Year of the Snake saw the rise of Generation X, following the Baby Boomer era. This year, the Beta Generation will emerge, succeeding the digital Alpha Generation in the age of AI. As an organization predominantly led by Generation X, AKBFF is dedicated to fostering intergenerational connections and ensuring harmonious collaboration across regions. Our mission is to engage not only Millennials and Gen Z but also the Alpha and Beta Generations, promoting inclusivity and innovation for the future.
With resolute dedication, we will continue to cultivate opportunities for our members and local communities, ensuring that their ambitions take root and flourish in the global economic arena.
Once again, I wish you and your families a peaceful, prosperous, and fulfilling 2025.
Warm regards,
Go Eun (Elaine) Kang
President, American Korean Businessmen Friendship Forum (AKBFF)
I am the CEO of Omni Financial Risk Management, demonstrating exceptional performance in community engagement and building meaningful connections. My passion for community development within the Korean community and my commitment to fostering harmony with mainstream American society have played a crucial role in my success. As a leader, I realized my American dream by acquiring the most influential Korean insurance agency in the Washington, DC metropolitan area in 2019. At the age of 39, I became one of the most notable female entrepreneurs in the Asian community. Through volunteer work and social responsibility, I have come to believe in the power of community over individualism in both business and life.
Professional Highlights
● Community Engagement: In my recent role, I utilized my outstanding communication skills and community-building expertise to become the only Korean member of the Virginia Asian Advisory Board, representing the voices and interests of our community. I am dedicated to promoting unity by bridging the Korean community and mainstream American society in Virginia. Additionally, I coordinated significant events, including the Asian Small Business Forum within the AAPI community, by collaborating with Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares, fostering cultural bonds and community engagement. As the youngest senior vice president of the Korean American Association of Maryland, I significantly increased participation in the Korean Festival and was recognized by the Governor of Maryland for promoting harmony among local residents.
● Leadership and Advocacy: I am a founding member of the American Korean Businessman Friendship Forum (AKBFF), which aims to promote friendship between small businesses in the U.S. and Korea. Additionally, I have been an active member of the Peaceful Unification Advisory Council (PUAC) for five years, contributing to the expansion of “K-Peace” in Washington, DC, and presenting innovative approaches for the next generation.
Recognition and Awards
My dedication to excellence has been recognized through various awards. Omni Financial Risk Management has received the Business of the Year Award ($1-10M), the Power 30 Award from the Asian American Chamber of Commerce (AACC), and the Circle of Excellence Partner Award from Travelers Insurance, acknowledging my commitment. Furthermore, being selected as a trusted provider of advanced insurance solutions through STAG ONE™ from The Hartford demonstrates my dedication to serving our community, contributing to economic development, and forming reliable partnerships in both business and community sectors.