[HQ] The 21st Next Generation Leadership Forum 11/15/25

Under the theme "A Step Toward the Future," the forum aimed to help the next generation of Korean-Americans grow into proactive leaders in the future society, building on their bicultural identity. The forum began with a joint performance by the Korean and American governments. Consul Park Chul delivered a congratulatory address on behalf of Consul General Kim Young-wan, emphasizing the role of Korean-American youth growing up amidst the cultures and democratic values ​​of both countries.

 Equipped with microphones and timers, the students questioned and spoke to the panelists in a formal setting, deepening their understanding of the mainstream social system and deepening their sense of civic responsibility and participation.

 The 21st forum featured five speakers representing mainstream society and the Korean-American community, delivering leadership messages from diverse perspectives. 

The first speaker, Steve Kang, Chairman of the Los Angeles Public Works Commission, emphasized the importance of Korean-Americans confidently representing their identities in the public sphere, explaining that speaking up and taking responsibility is the beginning of transforming the future of our community.

 Following this, Ju Eun Park, Director of the Korean American Grassroots Conference (KAGC), who attended from Washington, D.C., explained the importance of political and social engagement, pointing out that lack of participation could leave the future of the Korean-American community at the mercy of other groups.

The third speaker, former Los Angeles Fire Chief Emile Mack, introduced the essence of leadership rooted in public service, emphasizing that leadership is not about power, but about the responsibility and courage to protect a community. Dr.

Andrew Kim, MD, then emphasized the importance of individuals with problem-solving skills and ethical leadership, drawing on his expertise in medicine and education. He generously answered the participants' questions, sharing his own experiences.

Stephanie Yeo, a USC law student and former Hwarang alumnus, shared her own experience of deciding to apply to law school after meeting with the LA City Attorney while a member of Hwarang in 2019. She advised the attendees that consistency shapes leadership. 

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