The Korean population in Wisconsin is relatively small compared to other states, but it has been steadily increasing, especially in areas where universities and businesses are concentrated.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau and the American Community Survey (ACS), it is estimated that about 15,000 people reside here. (Please note that there may be some differences depending on the year of the survey or the method used.)

Main Residential Areas

  1. Madison

    • Due to the influence of the University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW–Madison), there are relatively many international students, researchers, and educators in the area.
    • As the state capital, it is also a place where Korean-related events and cultural exchanges are actively held.

  2. Milwaukee

    • As the largest city in Wisconsin, there are quite a few Koreans who have settled here due to the presence of large corporations and industrial complexes.
    • The number of Korean grocery stores and restaurants is steadily increasing, improving living conditions.

  3. Suburbs and College Towns

    • Other cities like La Crosse, Oshkosh, Appleton, and Green Bay also have small to medium-sized colleges, forming small Korean communities.

Korean Community and Life

  • Korean Associations and Community Organizations: Local Korean associations, student groups, and religious organizations are organized mainly in Madison and Milwaukee, hosting holiday events and cultural festivals.
  • Korean Restaurants & Grocery Stores: It has become much easier to find Korean ingredients and food compared to the past in major cities. There are several Korean grocery stores and restaurants in Madison and Milwaukee.
  • Colleges & Research Personnel: International students, exchange students, researchers, and professors studying or working in the University of Wisconsin system (including Madison and other branch campuses) are also a major factor in increasing the Korean population.

Atmosphere & Characteristics

  • Thanks to its image as an "educational and research city," there are many Koreans who stay for short or long terms for study or research in some areas, including Madison.
  • Although the population is small compared to other Midwestern states, the number of international students and immigrants is gradually increasing each year, making the Korean community more diverse.
  • While there is no large Korean town, even if they live scattered in small groups, they tend to interact closely and share information.

Since it is not a densely populated Korean area, one might think that "there won't be much Korean culture around," but rather, it creates a warm family-like exchange.
If you are considering studying abroad, employment, or immigration, it would be helpful to look up information about the Korean community centered around Madison and Milwaukee in advance.