HANA Receives Honor at Korean American Association of Chicago (KAAC)’s 8.15 Commemoration Event

On August 15, 2026, HANA Center was awarded the “Proud Korean Organization Award” by Korean American Association of Chicago (KAAC) at its 8/15 Commemoration Event, held at First Korean United Methodist Church in Wheeling. 

August 15, or Gwangbokjeol (“the day the light returned”), marks the 81st anniversary of Korea’s independence, when the Japanese army surrendered to the Allied Forces in 1945, ending 35 years of Japanese colonial rule that began in 1910. This day was a turning point in Korean history, signaling the return of Korea’s cultural and national identity. Leading up to independence, many Koreans fought against harsh Japanese rule that systematically stripped them of their language, cultural institutions, and dignity. Many lost their lives in that fight.  

In the spirit of this struggle, the award recognizes HANA’s long-standing dedication to improving the rights and welfare of immigrant communities, as well as its role in bridging the Korean American community with the broader society. Since January 2025, HANA has implemented a Rapid Response Plan in response to increasing attacks on immigrant communities--launching a free Know Your Rights for Immigrants phone app in 20+ languages and staffing two Korean language hotlines for immigration emergencies. HANA has also conducted Know Your Rights (KYR) training with Korean churches, outreached to Korean small businesses to share resources, and supported a local Rapid Response Team focused on documenting ICE activities and abuses. In addition, HANA continues to provide high-quality, no-cost immigration and legal services for community members seeking to apply for citizenship, renew DACA, and adjust their status.  

This recognition from KAAC is especially meaningful given the challenges immigrant communities continue to face, and it reaffirms the strength and solidarity of the Korean American community in the Chicago area. We thank KAAC for this honor and for their continued dedication to promoting cooperation and progress within the Chicago Korean community. 

HANA’s Community Navigator, Ms. Rosa Lee(이조옥), was also awarded at the event for her role in recognizing Korean War veterans for their service and sacrifice. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Lee for her dedication to honoring this history. 

To request Know Your Rights (KYR) information or an in-person workshop, please contact Hyun Joo Choi at hchoi1@hanacenter.org.