Day 138: Little Seoul, Newport News, Virginia
📌APIA Every Day (138) - Situated on Warwick Boulevard in Newport News, Hampton Roads, is a concentration of Korean-owned businesses and services, often referred to as "Little Seoul." While not as well-known as other "Little Seouls" in the nation, this mile-long strip has become a vital hub for the Korean community in the region, offering a variety of amenities and cultural touchstones that cater specifically to Korean residents and visitors.
The Korean presence in Hampton Roads dates back to the mid-20th century, primarily driven by the aftermath of the Korean War and the subsequent U.S. military presence in Korea. Many Korean women married American servicemen stationed in Korea and relocated to the United States, often settling near military bases such as Langley Air Force Base and Fort Eustis.
The area now features a wide array of businesses, including beauty salons, dental clinics, acupuncture services, restaurants, senior citizen centers, tutorial academies, and churches. In addition to commercial enterprises, the Korean community in Hampton Roads is supported by various social and cultural organizations. Korean-language newspapers, such as The Korea Dureh Journal and The Korean Post, keep the community informed about local and international news relevant to Koreans. Organizations like the Peninsula Korean American Association and the Tidewater Korean American Association further foster community engagement and support.
While Warwick Boulevard’s "Little Seoul" might not have the same scale or visibility as larger ethnic neighborhoods in major cities, it serves a crucial role for the Korean community in Hampton Roads.
LEARN MORE:
Virginia Pilot: A little 'Seoul' on Warwick Boulevard
Facebook: Jung Ha Oriental Market
Facebook: Chung Oak Korean Restaurant
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