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California Senate adopts SCR 106 recognizing January 13 as Korean American Day
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Summary
The California State Senate unanimously moved to adopt Senate Concurrent Resolution 106, honoring the history and contributions of Korean Americans and proclaiming January 13, 2026, as Korean American Day in the state; the measure passed on a roll call vote during the Jan. 13 floor session.
The California State Senate adopted Senate Concurrent Resolution 106 on Jan. 13, proclaiming January 13, 2026, as Korean American Day in California and honoring more than a century of Korean American contributions to the state.
Sen. John (Choi) (author) told colleagues SCR 106 marks the 123rd anniversary of the first recorded Korean immigration to the United States in 1903 and urged support for recognizing the community’s cultural and economic contributions across the state. "Today happens to be twelfth, so tomorrow is official Korean American Day," Choi said in remarks introducing the measure.
Why it matters: Senators from across California emphasized the resolution’s symbolic recognition of a diverse constituency—pointing to Koreatown neighborhoods, business ownership, community organizations and military service. Supporters argued the designation affirms inclusion and honors civic and economic contributions in districts from the Central Valley to Orange County and the San Gabriel Valley.
Key details: Choi and multiple co-sponsors highlighted historical and contemporary touchstones—references included the arrival of the first Korean immigrants in 1903, the Korean Friendship Bell in San Pedro, and community relief efforts following recent wildfires. Choi introduced visiting Korean American leaders and invited senators to a reception on the 7th-floor public area after the session.
Vote and outcome: The secretary called the roll and senators recorded affirmative votes; the presiding officer announced the measure had passed. The Senate noted the measure passed by voice/roll call during the floor session and proceeded to introductions and a photo with visiting delegations.
Quotation: "I rise today, with great pride to introduce Resolution SCR 106 that recognizes a remarkable milestone," Sen. Choi said, urging colleagues to "reaffirm California's commitment to diversity, opportunity and unity." Several senators, including Strickland, Perez, Archuleta, Richardson and Weber Pearson, offered supporting remarks during floor debate.
Next steps: As a concurrent resolution, SCR 106 is a formal symbolic recognition of the day; it does not create law or new regulatory obligations. The chamber moved on to introductions of visitors and other business after the vote.
Ending: The passage concluded with a roll call and the chamber's announcement that "The measure passes." Senators and guests gathered for photos and a reception following the floor session.
