More Korean Americans in Congress, fewer Republican allies: What it means for Seoul

The Korea Times - Nov 9, 2026

The Democratic sweep in the U.S. midterm elections has added another Korean American to Congress, but the likely defeat of Republican Rep. Young Kim has raised concern among community leaders that Korea could lose a crucial bipartisan channel in Washington. Korean American members of Congress have long served as a bridge between Washington and Seoul, representing some 2 million Korean Americans, facilitating diplomatic networking and introducing legislation focused on Korea. Following the Nov. 3 elections, up to four or five congressional seats are expected to be held by Korean Americans. Democrat Dan Koh won a House seat in Massachusetts, becoming the seventh Korean American elected to Congress, while Democratic Reps. Marilyn Strickland of Washington and Dave Min of California retained their seats. Kim, a three-term incumbent representing California’s 40th District, is falling behind against fellow Republican Ken Calvert, facing potential defeat. Sunny Park, president of the American Korean Friendship Society and a retired businessman, said Kim’s possible loss would be felt well be

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