Photo / The Korean American Chamber of Commerce Houston President Vivienne Kwon
HOUSTON (TexasN) — The Korean American Chamber of Commerce Houston (KACC Houston) held its 2026 Annual Gala on April 10, themed “Turning a New Leaf,” signaling a strategic pivot toward generational renewal and deeper integration with the Texas business establishment. The event convened high-profile political and business leaders, underscoring the organization’s strengthening ties with Houston’s mainstream and multicultural business communities.
The gala featured a robust roster of dignitaries, including Korean Consul General Young-eun Lee, U.S. Representatives Al Green and Christian Tran, and City Council Member Julian Ramirez. Honorary Gala Chair and former Texas State Representative Jacey Jetton highlighted the strategic importance of the corridor, stating, “The relationship between South Korea and Texas has never been stronger, and the Houston Korean business community remains one of the most vibrant economic engines in the nation.”
Incoming President Vivienne Kwon articulated a vision that moves beyond traditional advocacy toward high-impact economic support. “This term represents a new beginning aimed at reinforcing our practical economic influence,” Kwon said. Her administration plans to launch specialized programs focused on business expansion strategies, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and successful exit planning, complemented by continued networking initiatives such as the annual fall golf tournament.
Ethan Lee, Chairman of the Board, framed the Chamber’s evolving mission as a critical “bridge” connecting Korean-speaking business owners with municipal resources. Lee emphasized that after five years of rebuilding, the organization is now positioned to propel next-generation leaders into central roles within the mainstream economy.
The City of Houston formally recognized the Chamber’s growing regional stature by presenting an official proclamation, acknowledging the Korean business community’s substantial economic contributions and rising social influence.
Consul General Young-eun Lee reinforced the macroeconomic context, noting that South Korea is now Texas’s fifth-largest trading partner. “Houston, as a global hub for energy and biotechnology, remains an exceptionally attractive destination for Korean enterprise,” Lee remarked. She further noted that with South Korean investment in Texas exceeding $50 billion over the past decade, KACC Houston plays a pivotal role in public-private coordination under President Kwon’s new leadership.
Moving forward, the Chamber intends to solidify its standing as a premier Texas economic organization through the launch of the ‘TKYLC Committee’ and expanded coalitions with other ethnic and regional chambers of commerce.
Catherine Wahrmund amiangs0210@gmail.com
