When I visited New York about a decade ago, Korea was almost non-existent in the city, except for the narrow stretch of Koreatown on 32nd Street. However, the situation has changed drastically. Today, it is common to see and experience Korean culture in New York in a variety of forms and locations.

During a recent trip to New York City, I witnessed a cultural phenomenon that has been gaining momentum over the past few years — the vibrant and dynamic presence of Korean culture in the heart of the Big Apple.

From the bustling streets of Manhattan to the hip neighborhoods of Brooklyn, the influence of Korea is palpable. The bustling BCD Tofu House is crowded with both Koreans and international customers, while Paris Baguette's branches are sprinkled throughout Manhattan, delivering Korean-style breads.

The high-end Korean dining scene is also thriving, with Atomix, a fine dining restaurant boasting two Michelin stars and a fourth-place ranking in the 100 Best Restaurants in New York City for 2024 by The New........

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