Since the 2020 pandemic, the Asian population, including Koreans, in Utah has been gradually increasing.

According to the 2020 U.S. Census Bureau data, the Korean population residing in Utah is approximately 10,000.
  • Salt Lake City: The capital and economic center of Utah, it is the main residence for Koreans.
  • Provo: Many Korean international students and their families live here, associated with BYU (Brigham Young University).
  • Ogden: A relatively small Korean community has formed here.

Information on Koreatown in Utah

  • Koreatown in Salt Lake City:
    While there is no large official Koreatown like in Los Angeles (LA), there is an area in downtown Salt Lake City where Korean restaurants, markets, and beauty salons are gathered.

    • Main Korean businesses:
      • H Mart: A representative Korean market located in Salt Lake City, selling various Asian products including Korean groceries.
      • Korean restaurants: There are several Korean restaurants offering dishes like bibimbap, bulgogi, and BBQ.
      • Beauty salons and nail shops: Korean-operated beauty salons and nail shops are located in the main commercial areas.
      • Churches and religious facilities: Korean churches and temples serve as important gathering places for the community.

  • Characteristics:

    • While it is hard to call it a Koreatown, there is a small Korean business district where you can feel Korean culture.
    • Korean businesses are scattered mainly in the outskirts of Salt Lake City and Provo.

Growth of the Korean Community in Utah

  • Education-centered:
    Utah is known as an education-centered state, and Korean international students studying at universities like BYU form a community.

    • There are also many Korean students and researchers at the University of Utah.

  • Religion-centered:
    As the home of the Mormon Church, some Koreans participate in activities related to this religion and interact with the local culture.

    • However, most Korean communities gather around Korean churches or temples.
  • There are about 10,000 Koreans in Utah, primarily residing in Salt Lake City and Provo.
  • While there is no large Koreatown, a Korean business and community have formed centered around Salt Lake City.
  • The Korean community is growing around education, religion, and business, actively interacting with the local community.

If you are interested in Utah or planning to move, you can get help adapting to the local area through the Korean community!