Today we’d like to introduce you to Joshua Jung
Hi Joshua, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I was born and raised in South Korea and came to the United States to pursue my Master of Divinity. When I first arrived, I realized that while Korea was known, many people still asked if I was from China or North Korea. This sparked a desire in me to promote and share the richness of Korean culture more effectively.
I began asking myself how I could introduce Korea in a meaningful way, and that question led to the creation of a Korean food festival. This event became the foundation of what is now a full-scale Korean festival, showcasing the best of Korean cuisine and culture.
The next step was Korean language education. Instead of focusing solely on second-generation Koreans, I wanted to offer Korean language classes to anyone with an interest in learning. This initiative led to the establishment of the Orlando Korea Culture Center, which naturally became a hub for promoting Korean culture.
As global interest in Korean culture grew, so did the opportunities to introduce it in diverse ways. This allowed us to expand our programs to include K-pop contests, traditional Korean cultural education, Korean cooking classes, traditional dance workshops, and even a Korean cultural camp.
Through these efforts, I have been able to build a platform that not only fosters cultural exchange but also strengthens the connection between Korea and the wider community. It has been a rewarding journey, and I look forward to continuing to share the beauty of Korean heritage with even more people.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been an easy journey. When I first started, I had very little knowledge of how things worked in the U.S. I didn’t know where to begin, how to effectively promote Korean culture, or even how to find the right people to work with. Marketing strategies, community outreach, and fundraising were all unfamiliar territory for me. Financial support was another major hurdle—I had no idea how to secure sponsorships or funding to sustain and grow these initiatives.
Every step required persistence, learning, and trial and error. There were moments of uncertainty and setbacks, but each challenge became an opportunity to grow. Through years of dedication, I gradually built a foundation, learning how to navigate these complexities while staying committed to the mission.
Even now, I am facing a new challenge—taking this organization to the next level. The vision is bigger than ever, but so are the obstacles. However, I firmly believe that with the right support, this movement can continue to thrive and make an even greater impact.
I invite those who share a passion for cultural exchange and education to join in this journey. Together, we can create more opportunities to introduce the beauty of Korean culture to the world and build a stronger, more connected community.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a pastor, and my journey to the United States began with a calling—to study theology and prepare for ministry. My greatest passion is to love God and, in turn, to love my neighbors with the same devotion. Everything I do, including my efforts to promote Korean culture, is rooted in this deeper mission: to share the love of Christ.
What sets my work apart is that it goes beyond cultural exchange; it is about transforming lives. Through the Orlando Korea Culture Center, I have the privilege of connecting with people from all backgrounds, introducing them to the richness of Korean heritage while always pointing to something far greater—the incomparable worth of knowing and believing in Jesus Christ.
I firmly believe that the most valuable thing in this world is to know and trust in Him. Culture opens doors, but the ultimate purpose is to lead people to experience God’s love. Whether through language classes, festivals, or community events, I see each encounter as an opportunity to reflect the grace of Christ and to plant seeds of faith in hearts that may not yet know Him.
This is the mission I am most proud of. It is not merely about organizing events or teaching a language—it is about sharing the gospel in a way that is both meaningful and accessible. My hope is that through these efforts, many will come to see that beyond culture, beyond traditions, there is a love that surpasses all understanding—the love of Christ.
If you are searching for something more, if you are longing for truth, I invite you to discover the beauty of not only culture but of faith in Jesus. He is the greatest treasure, and His love is the reason behind everything I do.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I encourage you to explore the vibrant flavors of Korea by visiting one of the many Korean restaurants in the Orlando area. Food is a beautiful gateway to culture, and experiencing authentic Korean cuisine is just the beginning.
I also invite you to participate in the various educational programs offered at the Orlando Korea Culture Center. Whether you’re interested in learning the Korean language, traditional dance, cooking, or history, there is something for everyone. These programs provide a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich and dynamic culture while connecting with a welcoming community.
And if you want to experience the energy and excitement of K-pop, be sure to attend one of the upcoming Korean cultural performances in the area. Whether as a spectator or even as a participant, engaging in K-pop events will introduce you to a whole new world of music, passion, and creativity.
No matter your background, Korean culture has something to offer you. I invite you to take that first step—visit, learn, and experience something new. You may discover more than just a culture; you may find a community and a deeper connection that enriches your life in ways you never expected.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.okccenter.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orlandokoreaculturecenter?igsh=aHl5c2JsaXFsMnlq
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1B77BrXVhX/?mibextid=wwXIfr
