As we welcome 2026, the Year of the Fire Horse – a symbol of energy, independence, confidence, and forward momentum – 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 a few years, our organization has flourished into a vibrant community of over 20 member companies spanning diverse industries such as law, finance, healthcare, education, manufacturing, retail, real estate, consulting 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 2025, AKBFF focused on fortifying our internal structure, deepening unity among members, and amplifying our presence both locally and globally. In 2026, 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 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 2026.
Warm regards,
Go Eun (Elaine) Kang
President, American Korean Businessmen Friendship Forum (AKBFF)