Denver is one of the cities in Colorado with the largest Korean population.

Although a large Koreatown like those in Los Angeles or New York has not formed, the Korean community in Denver and its surroundings has steadily grown, establishing its own culture and economic base.

Korean Population in Denver

• Korean population size:
  • It is estimated that about 18,000 Koreans reside in the Denver metro area and its surroundings.
  • The total Korean population in Colorado is about 40,000, concentrated in areas near Denver.
• Population distribution:
  • Many Koreans live not only in downtown Denver but also in suburban areas like Aurora, Centennial, and Greenwood Village.
  • In particular, Aurora is located east of Denver and is where many Korean businesses and community facilities are concentrated.

Information on Koreatown in Denver

While there is no large single area like a traditional Koreatown in Denver, there are areas densely populated with Korean shops, restaurants, and churches.

1. Aurora

   • Center of the Korean community:
     Aurora serves as the center of the Korean community in Denver, with many Korean restaurants, markets, and community facilities.
   • Main places:
     • Korean market: H Mart, Pacific Ocean Marketplace
     • Korean restaurants: There are various Korean restaurants where traditional Korean food can be easily accessed.
     • Korean churches: There are many large Korean churches in the Aurora area that play a central role in the Korean community.

2. Area near Denver International Airport

   • Near Denver International Airport (DIA), there are many businesses and commercial facilities operated by Koreans.

3. Downtown Denver

   • In downtown, small Korean restaurants, cafes, and K-pop related shops are gradually increasing.

Characteristics of the Korean Community

• Cultural center:

  • The Korean community frequently holds traditional holiday events such as Chuseok and Seollal.
  • Organizations like the Korean Association operate various programs for the community, enhancing the bonds among Koreans.

• Business:

  • In addition to Korean markets and restaurants, there are various businesses operated by Koreans, including hair salons, laundries, and taekwondo studios.

• Education and family-oriented:

  • Korean families in Denver often have a high interest in education and tend to live in areas with excellent school districts.
  • Weekend schools and cultural centers that teach Korean are also operated.

Places Frequently Used by Koreans in Denver

• H Mart: A large market where Korean groceries and household items can be easily obtained.
• Korean restaurants: Notable Korean restaurants include barbecue specialty shops and traditional Korean restaurants.
• Korean churches: Places where one can participate in community activities through religious activities.
• Cultural centers and Korean language schools: Institutions where children can learn about Korean culture.

The Korean community in Denver is growing while maintaining a unique identity, blending into the local community. It is developing further, centered around the Aurora area, which has many Korean shops and facilities, and although it is not a Koreatown, it is a place where the roots of Koreans are deeply established!