Andy Kim proud to be the first Korean American US senator

United States Senator Andy Kim.

New Jersey's newly sworn-in US Senator Andy Kim today put up a series of posts on X to answer the question: What does it mean to be the first Korean American Senator? He responded: 

"I’ve been asked what it means to be 1st Korean American Senator. On this Korean American day, I want to share a photo of the home where my mom grew up during Korean War. America opened its doors and helped her become a nurse. Last week she stood with me as I was sworn in.

:And it isn’t just my mom’s story. Over 120 yrs since the first Koreans came to America. Now there are 2 million Korean Americans. 24 million Asian Americans. Asian Americans are not monolithic. 

Andy Kim's mother was raised in the building behind her.

"I of course do not speak for all, nor is my story and experience reflective of all."

In fact I’ve struggled with my identity over my life. At times I resisted the label Korean/Asian American and snapped back with 'I’m just American.'  "I never would have imagined that Korean culture would become hugely popular between BTS, Squid Game, Korean BBQ, K-dramas etc.

"We now see Korean Americans leading major businesses, as leading actors, as innovators and media personalities. And it’s not just about leadership and accomplishments. It’s about the families built and the communities strengthened. Those contributing in different ways.

"When I first ran for Congress I didn’t initially realize there were no Korean Americans in federal office. It was not a barrier I set out to break.  "But when someone told me there is no way I can win a Congressional District that is 85% white and less than 3% Asian, I felt so insulted and disrespected.

"Last year someone told me I’m the wrong kind of minority to win statewide. Now I’m the 1st Asian American Senator from entire east coast. I can appeal not just to people who look like me. My story isn’t just a Korean American/ Asian American story; it’s an American story.

"I’m proud to break new ground but honestly I look forward to a time when I’m no longer unique. That’s what I want for my two boys. For them to grow up in an America where no one blinks twice about any aspirations they have. No one casts doubts.

"Sadly some still question my loyalty or accuse me of allegiance/favor towards Asian nations. I don’t know that will ever fully go away. I’ve learned to have confidence and pride in my heritage and show that my Korean identity does not take away from my love of being American.

"And now we have the most number of AAPI members of Congress ever and the AAPI community is a vital demographic in swing states like Georgia/Nevada.  "I believe the next decade will be the most dynamic decade for Korean/ Asian Americans in politics. And I’m honored to be a part of it.

A sign in South Korea proudly proclaims its ties to Sen. Andy Kim.

"My mom just sent me this photo from her childhood hometown in South Korea of a banner that says essentially, “Home of Senator Andy Kim’s mom.” My mom left that town 50 yrs ago to build a family in America. What an amazing 50 yrs it’s been. God bless. Happy Korean American Day! END"

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news and views from an AANHPI perspective, follow me on Threads, on X or at the blog Views From the Edge.