25 Koreans Celebrated at the 2025 Gold House A100 Honors

Gold House A100 Honorees of Korean Heritage for 2025:

A1 Gold Legend Honoree

Min Jin Lee

Min Jin Lee is a celebrated Korean American author renowned for her profound storytelling and deep exploration of immigrant experiences, identity, and resilience. Her critically acclaimed novels, including Free Food for Millionaires and the bestseller Pachinko, have earned widespread praise for their vivid portrayal of Korean and Korean American lives across generations. Pachinko in particular has become a cultural touchstone, highlighting the complexities of diaspora, family, and survival.

As a Gold Legend honoree, Min Jin Lee’s lasting impact extends beyond literature—she has elevated Asian Pacific narratives within mainstream culture, amplifying underrepresented voices and enriching the broader conversation about heritage and belonging. Her work continues to inspire readers worldwide and shape the literary landscape with its nuanced insight and heartfelt storytelling.

Gold House A100 Honorees

Andrew Ahn

Andrew Ahn is a Korean American filmmaker celebrated for his deeply personal and authentic storytelling, centering on queer Asian American identities. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Ahn gained critical acclaim with his debut feature Spa Night (2016), which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and won the John Cassavetes Award at the Independent Spirit Awards. His later films, include Driveways (2019) and Fire Island (2022). (Fire Island earned a GLAAD Award and multiple Emmy nominations.)

Most recently, Ahn directed a modern reimagining of Ang Lee’s The Wedding Banquet (1993), which premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival. This new film explores themes of LGBTQ+ identity and the immigrant experience through the story of a Korean artist navigating visa pressures in America. It starred Bowen Yang, Kelly Marie Tran, and Lily Gladstone. Beyond his filmmaking, Ahn actively mentors emerging directors through initiatives like Outfest’s OutSet and the Sundance Institute’s Native Filmmaker Lab, which continues to uplift underrepresented voices in the film industry.

Han Gi-chan

Han Gi-chan is a rising South Korean actor recognized for his trailblazing roles that bring LGBTQ+ narratives to the forefront of Korean media. He first gained public attention as a contestant on Produce X 101 in 2019 and made a striking acting debut in the 2020 web series Where Your Eyes Linger. Widely regarded as Korea’s first BL (Boys’ Love) drama, the series received international acclaim, with Han’s performance as a chaebol heir helping to shift conversations around representation and inclusivity in Korean entertainment.

In 2025, Han continued to break ground with his leading role as Min in Andrew Ahn’s modern reimagining of The Wedding Banquet. The film explores themes of identity, family, and societal expectation, with Han portraying a Korean fashion heir caught in a complex relationship dynamic. His sensitive and layered performance further established him as a bold and versatile talent committed to pushing cultural boundaries through storytelling.

Andy Kim

Andy Kim is a trailblazer and the first Korean American elected to the United States Senate. He was born in Boston to Korean immigrant parents and raised in South Jersey. Before entering politics, he built a distinguished career in national security, serving at the Pentagon, the State Department, and in the US Agency for International Development as a civilian advisor in Afghanistan. In 2018 Kim made history by being elected to the US House of Representatives from New Jersey’s Third Congressional District. He then went on to win reelections in 2020 and 2022.

In November 2024, Kim was elected to the US Senate in the general election, becoming the first Korean-American in the Senate and the first Asian-American US senator from New Jersey. As a Senator, he is dedicated to combating corruption, strengthening national security, and promoting economic opportunities for all Americans. Committed to restoring trust in government, Kim advocates for inclusive representation, ensuring the voices of diverse communities are heard and valued across the nation.

Bong Joon Ho

Bong Joon Ho is a visionary South Korean filmmaker renowned for his genre-defying storytelling and incisive social commentary. Born in Daegu in 1969, he studied sociology at Yonsei University before honing his cinematic skills at the Korean Academy of Film Arts. Bong’s early works, such as Memories of Murder (2003) and The Host (2006), garnered critical acclaim for their unique blend of suspense, dark humor, and societal critique. His international breakthrough came with Snowpiercer (2013), a dystopian thriller that marked his English-language debut and showcased his ability to weave complex narratives across cultural boundaries.

In 2019, Bong made history with Parasite, a darkly comic exploration of class disparities, which became the first non-English-language film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture. The film also earned him Oscars for Best Director and Best Original Screenplay, solidifying his status as a global cinematic force. Continuing his innovative streak, Bong directed Mickey 17 (2025), a sci-fi black comedy starring Robert Pattinson, which further demonstrated his versatility and commitment to pushing narrative boundaries. His contributions have not only elevated Korean cinema on the world stage but have also inspired a new generation of filmmakers to challenge conventions and tell bold, impactful stories.

Cathy Cha

Cathy Cha is the President and CEO of the Evelyn and Walter Haas, Jr. Fund, a San Francisco-based foundation dedicated to advancing equality and justice. Since joining the Fund in 2004, Cha has held various leadership roles, including Vice President of Programs, before being appointed President in 2019. Under her guidance, the Fund has focused on initiatives that support immigrant rights, education equity, and civic engagement, particularly within communities of color and among young people in California.

Cha has been instrumental in developing collaborative models that unite funders, nonprofits, and government entities to drive social impact. Notably, she co-founded the California Black Freedom Fund, a five-year initiative supporting Black-led organizations, and the California Campus Catalyst Fund, which enhances support for undocumented students in public colleges and universities. Her career reflects a steadfast commitment to empowering marginalized communities and fostering systemic change through strategic philanthropy.

Chris Suh

Chris Suh is the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Visa, where he oversees the company’s financial strategies, planning, reporting, finance operations, and investor relations. Appointed in August 2023, Suh brought to Visa a wealth of experience from his previous roles, including CFO at Electronic Arts and a 25-year tenure at Microsoft. At Microsoft, he notably served as Corporate Vice President and CFO of the Cloud + AI group by playing a pivotal role in the growth and transformation of the Azure and Dynamics businesses.

Beyond his professional achievements, Suh is recognized for his commitment to advancing Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) representation in corporate leadership. Throughout his career, he has mentored and sponsored numerous emerging AAPI professionals, emphasizing the importance of representation and role models in the business world. His dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion has made him a respected figure in both the finance industry and the broader community.

Daniel Dae Kim

Daniel Dae Kim is a Korean American actor and producer known for his iconic roles in TV shows like Lost and Hawaii Five-0. He has also appeared in major films such as Hellboy and voiced characters in Raya and The Last Dragon. In 2025, Kim made history as the first Asian American nominated for a Tony Award for Best Leading Actor for his role in Yellow Face, highlighting issues of race and representation.

Beyond acting, Kim is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion. He founded the production company 3AD, which produced the hit series The Good Doctor. He has testified before Congress on hate crimes against Asian Americans and serves on the White House Commission for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Affairs. Kim also supports Gold House’s mission to amplify AAPI voices in entertainment and culture.

Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok

Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok is a South Korean esports legend widely regarded as the greatest League of Legends player of all time. Since starting his professional career in 2013 with T1, he has won five World Championships, multiple domestic titles, and two Mid-Season Invitational trophies, cementing his status as a dominant force in competitive gaming.

Beyond his impressive achievements, Faker’s impact has elevated esports globally. He was the first inductee into the League of Legends Hall of Legends and has been recognized alongside sports icons in The Times’ “Top 10 Sports Powers.” Faker’s skill and influence have inspired millions and helped bring esports into mainstream recognition.

Han Kang

Han Kang is a South Korean author renowned for her introspective and poetic prose that delves into themes of trauma, identity, and the human condition. Born in Gwangju in 1970, she began her literary career in 1993 and gained international acclaim with her novel The Vegetarian, which won the 2016 International Booker Prize. Her works often explore historical traumas, particularly those related to South Korea’s modern history, such as the Gwangju Uprising and the Jeju Massacre.

In 2024, Han Kang was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, becoming the first South Korean and the 18th woman to receive the honor. The Swedish Academy recognized her “intense poetic prose that confronts historical traumas and exposes the fragility of human life.” Her other notable works include Human Acts, The White Book, and Greek Lessons. Han’s writing continues to resonate globally, offering profound insights into the complexities of human experience.

Joyce Kim

Joyce Kim is a Korean American executive recognized for her significant contributions to the beauty industry. As Chief Product Officer at Rare Beauty, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the brand’s innovative product offerings and inclusive beauty standards. Her leadership has been instrumental in Rare Beauty’s growth and its commitment to diversity and accessibility in the beauty market.

In 2025, Kim was honored as part of Gold House’s A100 list, which celebrates the 100 most impactful Asian Pacific leaders across various industries. This recognition highlights her influence in the beauty sector and her role in redefining industry norms to better serve a diverse consumer base.

Junkoo Kim

Junkoo Kim, the founder and CEO of WEBTOON Entertainment, has been honored on the 2025 Gold House A100 List for his transformative impact on digital storytelling. Since launching WEBTOON in 2005, Kim pioneered the vertical scroll format, revolutionizing the way comics are consumed and inspiring a new generation of creators. Under his leadership, WEBTOON has evolved into a global entertainment powerhouse, boasting approximately 160 million monthly active users and producing content that has been adapted into popular series on platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Crunchyroll.

Kim’s vision has not only democratized content creation but also bridged cultural gaps by bringing diverse stories to a worldwide audience. His recognition by Gold House underscores his role in shaping the future of entertainment and technology, highlighting the significance of Asian Pacific leaders in global cultural innovation.

David J. Lee

David J. Lee, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer of WEBTOON Entertainment, has been recognized on the 2025 Gold House A100 List for his instrumental role in transforming digital storytelling. In 2024, Lee co-led WEBTOON’s landmark $1.3 billion IPO, which positioned the company as a NASDAQ-listed entertainment powerhouse. Under his financial leadership, WEBTOON achieved $1.347 billion in revenue and expanded its global user base to 170 million monthly active users, with 60% residing outside Asia. Lee’s strategic initiatives have been pivotal in scaling WEBTOON’s creator-centric platform and broadening its international reach.

Beyond financial achievements, Lee has championed technological innovation and inclusivity within the entertainment industry. He has overseen the development of AI tools like the AI Painter and anti-piracy systems such as Toon Radar, enhancing both creator productivity and content protection. Additionally, Lee has supported initiatives like tactile braille webcomics, making digital content more accessible to visually impaired audiences. His efforts exemplify a commitment to empowering creators and diversifying storytelling, aligning with Gold House’s mission to elevate Asian Pacific leaders in culture and technology.

Lee Byung-hun

Lee Byung-hun, a celebrated South Korean actor, has been honored on the 2025 Gold House A100 List for his influential contributions to global entertainment. Renowned for his versatility, Lee has delivered compelling performances in both Korean cinema and Hollywood. Notable works include Joint Security Area, A Bittersweet Life, Masquerade, and international films like G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra, Terminator Genisys, and The Magnificent Seven. In 2024, he reprised his role as the enigmatic Front Man in Netflix’s Squid Game Season 2, further solidifying his global appeal.

Beyond his on-screen achievements, Lee has been recognized for his cultural impact. In 2024, he received the Actor of the Year award and honorary citizenship from Florence, Italy, during the Florence Korea Film Fest, acknowledging his role in promoting Korean cinema internationally. As a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Lee continues to bridge the Eastern and Western film industries, inspiring audiences worldwide with his dedication to the craft.

Lee Jung-jae

Lee Jung-jae, a renowned South Korean actor, director, and producer, has been honored on Gold House List, recognizing the most impactful Asian Pacific leaders in American culture and society. Since his debut in 1993, Lee has built a distinguished career with notable roles in films such as The Thieves, Assassination, and Along with the Gods. His international acclaim soared with his portrayal of Seong Gi-hun in Netflix’s Squid Game, earning him the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series—the first for a Korean actor and for a non-English-speaking role.

Expanding his artistic pursuits, Lee made his directorial debut with the 2022 film Hunt, which he also wrote, produced, and starred in; the film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, showcasing his multifaceted talent. Lee continues to captivate global audiences with his role as a Jedi Master in the Disney+ series The Acolyte, set to release in June, and with the anticipated second season of Squid Game premiering later this year.

Hwang Dong-hyuk

Hwang Dong-hyuk is a South Korean filmmaker celebrated for creating the global phenomenon Squid Game. Released on Netflix in 2021, the series became the platform’s most-watched show, captivating audiences with its intense narrative and social commentary. Hwang’s work earned him the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series in 2022, making him the first South Korean to win in that category. He also received the Geumgwan Order of Cultural Merit, South Korea’s highest cultural honor, for his contributions to the arts.

In 2025, Hwang was named to Gold House’s A100 List, recognizing his significant impact on global entertainment. His storytelling, rooted in personal experiences and societal observations, has resonated worldwide, highlighting issues of inequality and human desperation. Beyond Squid Game, Hwang continues to influence the industry with projects like the upcoming film Killing Old People Club, further cementing his role as a visionary in contemporary cinema.

Lydia Ko

Lydia Ko, a New Zealand professional golfer born in Seoul, South Korea, has been recognized on the 2025 Gold House A100 List for her remarkable achievements and influence in the world of golf. Ko’s journey began when she moved to New Zealand at the age of four. By 15, she became the youngest player in LPGA history to win an event. Her early success continued as she became the youngest player, male or female, to reach the world number one ranking in 2015 at just 17 years old. Ko’s dedication and talent have earned her numerous accolades, including multiple major championships and Olympic medals.

In 2024, Ko achieved a historic milestone by winning the gold medal in women’s golf at the Paris Summer Olympics, completing her set of Olympic medals with a bronze from 2020 and a silver from 2016. This victory not only solidified her status as one of the sport’s greats but also earned her the final point needed for induction into the LPGA Hall of Fame, making her the 35th and youngest member under the current criteria. Ko’s resilience and commitment to excellence continue to inspire aspiring athletes worldwide.

Meroë Park

Meroë Park, a distinguished Korean American public servant, has been honored for her exceptional contributions to national security and cultural leadership. Born in Eugene, Oregon, to Korean-born professor Kwangjai Park, she graduated from Georgetown University before embarking on a 27-year career at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). During her tenure, Park held several key positions, including Chief of Human Resources and Director of Corporate Resources for Analysis, culminating in her role as Executive Director from 2013 to 2017. In 2017, she briefly served as Acting Director of the CIA, becoming one of the few women to lead the agency. Her exemplary service earned her two Presidential Rank Awards and the CIA’s Distinguished Intelligence Medal.

After retiring from the CIA, Park continued her commitment to public service. In 2020, she was appointed Deputy Secretary and Chief Operating Officer of the Smithsonian Institution, where she oversees operations across its 19 museums, 21 libraries, nine research centers, and the National Zoo. In this role, Park has been instrumental in expanding cultural exchanges, including signing the first memorandum of understanding between the Smithsonian and South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in 2023. Her leadership exemplifies the profound impact of Asian American professionals in shaping both national security and cultural heritage.

Michele Kang

Michele Kang, a Korean American entrepreneur and philanthropist, is honored for her groundbreaking contributions to women’s sports and healthcare technology. Born in Seoul, South Korea, Kang moved to the United States to pursue higher education, earning a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Chicago and a master’s in public and private management from Yale School of Management. In 2008, she founded Cognosante, a health IT company aimed at transforming the U.S. healthcare system, which was later acquired by Accenture in 2024. Kang’s ventures reflect her commitment to innovation and equity in both technology and sports.

In the realm of sports, Kang made history by becoming the first woman of color to own a National Women’s Soccer League team, the Washington Spirit, in 2022. She expanded her influence by acquiring majority ownership of Olympique Lyonnais Féminin and London City Lionesses, forming Kynisca Sports International—the first global multi-team organization dedicated to women’s soccer. Demonstrating her dedication to advancing women’s sports, Kang pledged a historic $30 million donation to U.S. Soccer in 2024, the largest ever by a woman, to enhance opportunities for women and girls in soccer.

Rosé (BLACKPINK) 

Rosé, born Roseanne Park in Auckland, New Zealand, to South Korean parents, is a global K-pop sensation and a member of BLACKPINK. She moved to Melbourne, Australia, at age seven and later relocated to Seoul to pursue her dream of becoming a singer. In 2016, she debuted as BLACKPINK’s main vocalist and lead dancer under YG Entertainment. Rosé has since achieved significant solo success, including her debut single album R in 2021 and her first full-length album Rosie in 2024. The latter featured the hit single “APT.” She made history as the first female K-pop artist to reach the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 and the first to top the ARIA Singles Chart in Australia.

Beyond her musical achievements, Rosé is known for her distinctive voice, fashion influence, and philanthropic efforts. She has been involved in various charitable activities and has used her platform to support causes she cares about. In 2025, Rosé was honored on the Gold House A100 List, recognizing her as one of the most impactful Asian Pacific leaders in culture and society. Her journey from a young girl in Melbourne to a global music icon exemplifies the power of perseverance and the influence of Asian Pacific talent in the entertainment industry.

SEVENTEEN 

SEVENTEEN, the 13-member K-pop group formed by Pledis Entertainment, has been honored on the 2025 Gold House A100 List as one of the most impactful Asian Pacific leaders in entertainment. Since their debut in 2015, SEVENTEEN has distinguished itself with a unique self-producing model, dividing into three specialized units—hip-hop, vocal, and performance—to create a cohesive and dynamic musical identity. Their innovative approach has propelled them to the forefront of the global music scene.

In 2024, SEVENTEEN achieved significant milestones, including being crowned ‘Best Group’ at the MTV Video Music Awards and ‘Top K-pop Touring Artist’ at the Billboard Music Awards. They made history as the first K-pop act to perform on the iconic Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury and headlined Lollapalooza Berlin. Their ‘RIGHT HERE’ world tour attracted over 1.4 million attendees, both in-person and online, and they became the only K-pop artist featured on Billboard Boxscore’s year-end ‘Top Tours’ chart. Additionally, their album SPILL THE FEELS became the best-selling K-pop release of 2024, with over 3.8 million copies sold, solidifying their status as global music icons.

Will Lee 

Will Lee is the Chief Executive Officer of Adweek, a leading media brand serving the marketing and advertising industry. Under his leadership, Adweek has transformed from an industry publication to a vibrant business intelligence platform, blending content, experiences throughout the marketing and advirtising community.

Prior to joining Adweek, Lee served as Chief Operating Officer at NPR, overseeing strategy, transformation, and growth for the organization and its network of 249 member stations. He has also held leadership roles at Meredith Corporation, led the digital businesses for PEOPLE, Entertainment Weekly, Sports Illustrated, and The Hollywood Reporter. Lee holds a Bachelor of Arts from Brown University and an MBA from New York University’s Stern School of Business. He resides in New York City with his wife, Suejin Yang, and their son, Troy.

Ryan Joe 

Ryan Joe is the Editor-in-Chief of Adweek, a premier media brand serving the marketing and advertising industry. Appointed in March 2024, Joe brings over 15 years of experience covering data-driven marketing and advertising. His journalism career began at Direct Marketing News in the early 2010s, followed by an eight-year tenure at AdExchanger as managing editor, and later as Senior Advertising Editor at Business Insider. Joe holds a bachelor’s degree from UCLA and an MFA in writing from Columbia University.

In his role at Adweek, Joe has been instrumental in expanding the publication’s editorial coverage to adapt to the fast-changing marketing industry ecosystem. He has also launched “Adspeak,” a podcast that brings to life the biggest stories in advertising, helping audiences make sense of the industry’s complexities. Recognized for his contributions to media and journalism, Joe was honored on the 2025 Gold House A100 List, celebrating the most impactful Asian Pacific leaders in American culture and society.

Gold House A100 New Gold Honoree

aespa

K-pop sensation aespa has been recognized as one of the most impactful Asian Pacific figures of 2025, securing a coveted spot on Gold House’s prestigious A100 List. The annual list, unveiled on May 1 to mark the start of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, celebrates 100 Asian Pacific leaders who have significantly shaped culture and society over the past year. aespa’s inclusion as a “New Gold” honoree highlights their rising global influence and contributions to the entertainment industry.

Comprising of members Karina, Giselle, Winter, and Ningning, aespa has solidified their status as a fourth-generation K-pop powerhouse since their debut in 2020 with the hit single “Black Mamba,” which surpassed 100 million views on YouTube. Their debut EP, Savage, and subsequent releases like “Next Level” and “Girls” have garnered international acclaim, blending innovative concepts with cutting-edge technology, such as their virtual avatar counterparts in the “æ” universe. In 2025, aespa’s influence has reached new heights. Their inclusion on the A100 List follows a string of accolades, including being named Billboard’s Women in Music Group of the Year and Forbes Korea’s Most Powerful Group of 2025.

Sohee Park

Sohee Park, the visionary behind the couture label Miss Sohee, has been recognized as a 2025 Gold House A100 New Gold honoree, celebrating her as a rising force in global fashion. Born in Seoul and based in London, Park’s ascent from Central Saint Martins graduate to haute couture designer has been marked by her meticulous craftsmanship and deep reverence for Korean heritage. Her Spring/Summer 2025 debut on the official Paris Haute Couture calendar showcased gowns inspired by traditional Korean motifs, such as mother-of-pearl inlay and hanbok silhouettes, reimagined through a modern lens. This collection not only highlighted her technical prowess but also positioned her as a trailblazer bringing Asian artistry to the forefront of high fashion.

Park’s designs are celebrated for their opulence and storytelling, often drawing from Korean folklore and nature. Her creations have graced red carpets at events like the Met Gala and Cannes Film Festival, worn by celebrities such as Miley Cyrus and Ariana Grande. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, her pieces embody a fusion of tradition and innovation, challenging the Eurocentric norms of couture. As a New Gold honoree, Park exemplifies the emergence of Asian creatives redefining cultural narratives and setting new standards in the fashion industry.

Complete list of A100 Honorees can be found at Gold House.