Developed and published at an unknown date, this photograph recognizes one of the first Korean National Association (KNA) buildings established on American soil. As seen on the building’s large signs, the KNA gathered support from entities such as US National Defense and the American Red Cross. This image helps to illuminate the split between increasing recognition of the status of Korean Americans and the strict political influences that controlled its early stages. The KNA was first devised in an attempt to combat Japanese colonial occupation within Korea. Though American assistance to this organization would help to divert resources to Koreans living in the United States, it would also serve the purpose of limiting Japanese power internationally. The eighteen men that line the front of the building are dressed in suits and face the photographer with a full embrace of their newly found prosperity. Their large presence defines a unique moment for immigrant populations in America—a time of professional significance and cultural independence—but suggests a lack of knowledge of greater efforts in the American political sphere.

It is most likely that this photograph was taken between 1909 and 1930, the strongest years for the KNA, and it would have preceded the ethically immoral actions taken by the US during World War II to stifle Japanese influence into American society. The timeline of American relationships with outside ethnic groups into the mid-twentieth century does not represent a linear descent into increasing cruelty but indicates an evolving model with successes and shortcomings in legitimizing foreign influences. Despite its greater political context, this photograph still serves as a positive symbol for the cultural representation of Korean Americans and support for Korea’s autonomy.