Mission and Objectives
Mission
Our mission is to serve as a bridge for Korean immigrants and the wider Manitoban communities, fostering their full integration into society by overcoming economic, health, and linguistic barriers. We strive to promote Korean and Korean Canadian culture and heritage by warmly welcoming all who embrace it, ensuring that everyone becomes independent and thriving members of the community.
Objectives
Provide resources and assistance to Korean and other diverse immigrants and residents in Manitoba.
Promote Korean and Korean Canadian culture and heritage through events, workshops, and educational programs.
Advocate for the rights and well-being of immigrants and minorities in Manitoba through outreach, awareness campaigns, and collaborative efforts with local organizations.
Foster community building and support among all members of the community.
Support vulnerable populations, including seniors, youth, and families, with targeted programs and services. This includes engagement, financial and digital literacy, health and wellness activities, etc.
Encourage participation from all community members to create a diverse and inclusive network.
Our Story & History
The Manitoba Korean Canadian Community Resource Network (MKCCRN) was established to provide essential support for Korean Canadians, other immigrants, and vulnerable individuals in Manitoba. Recognizing the challenges many face in navigating healthcare, language barriers, and social inclusion, we envisioned a space dedicated to addressing these needs while promoting and celebrating Korean and Korean Canadian culture and heritage, as well as diversity and inclusion. In 2023, we proudly opened our e-community to serve as both a resource hub and a cultural centre.
Early Beginnings
The Korean Canadian community in Manitoba began growing in the late 1960s and 1970s, as immigrants sought better opportunities in quieter cities like Winnipeg. Over time, a vibrant community formed around small businesses, churches, and cultural activities. However, many newcomers—especially seniors—faced challenges such as isolation, difficulty accessing services, and language barriers. In response, MKCCRN was created to provide vital services and support while strengthening cultural ties.
Opening the E-community in 2023
In 2023, MKCCRN opened its doors with a clear mission: to help community members overcome barriers while spreading awareness of Korean and Korean Canadian culture and heritage. The e-community provides services such as language support, settlement services, healthcare connections, pro-bono legal assistance, and employment resources. It also serves as a cultural hub where the broader Manitoba community can learn about and experience Korean traditions through events, workshops, and festivals.
Our Growth and Cultural Promotion
Since opening, MKCCRN has become a vital community space. In addition to offering essential services, we actively promote cultural exchange through events like Folklorama and Korean language classes, fostering cross-cultural connections and celebrating diversity.
Looking Ahead
As we grow, MKCCRN remains committed to supporting Koreans and Korean Canadians, immigrants, and vulnerable individuals, while continuing to promote diversity and foster inclusion across Manitoba.
Leadership
2023 – 2024 Board of Directors
Amos Sengi
Chairman of the Executive Committee & CEO
“I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.’”
Martin Luther King Jr.
Andrea X
CFO, Community Resource Coordinator
“Tokenism is hypocrisy.”
Malcolm X
Cole Owens
CAO, Communications and Outreach Coordinator
“Culture is not a static entity; it is the constantly evolving narrative of our shared human experience.”
Clifford Geertz
History of Korean Canadians in Manitoba
Early Immigration
(1960s-1970s)
Korean immigration to Manitoba began in the late 1960s and early 1970s, driven by Canada’s new points-based immigration system. This period coincided with South Korea’s recovery from the Korean War and significant economic challenges, prompting many Koreans to seek better opportunities abroad. While most initially settled in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, some were attracted to Manitoba’s quieter lifestyle and emerging opportunities, laying the foundation for a thriving Korean community.
Community Formation (1980s-1990s)
The 1980s and 1990s were transformative for Manitoba’s Korean community. Korean churches played a crucial role as community hubs, offering language classes, job placement assistance, and a sense of belonging. Many Korean immigrants started small businesses, such as grocery stores and restaurants, introducing Korean culture to the wider community and contributing to the local economy. These businesses, often family-run, exemplified hard work and perseverance.
Cultural Contributions
Korean Canadians have enriched Manitoba’s cultural landscape, notably through their participation in local cultural events. Additionally, the Korean community hosts cultural events year-round, celebrating Korean holidays and traditions, fostering cultural exchange and understanding.
Economic Contributions
Korean Canadians have significantly impacted Manitoba’s economy through entrepreneurship and professional contributions in education, healthcare, and engineering. Their businesses provide essential goods and services, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth. Korean professionals have enriched the workforce, driving innovation and contributing to the province’s development.
Integration and Growth
Today, Manitoba’s Korean Canadian community continues to thrive, balancing their heritage with Canadian culture. New generations celebrate both Korean and Canadian holidays, participate in diverse cultural activities, and often speak both languages fluently. This cultural blending enriches Manitoba’s multicultural fabric.
Korean Canadian students excel in education, reflecting the community’s emphasis on hard work and achievement. Many pursue higher education and careers in fields like medicine, law, engineering, and business, showcasing the community’s potential and promise.
Looking ahead, the Korean Canadian community in Manitoba aims to continue promoting cultural exchange, supporting economic growth, and fostering a strong sense of community, contributing to a more inclusive and vibrant Manitoba.
