Whereas the influence of Korean Americans may be observed in all facets of life in the United States, including politics, industry, entrepreneurship, volunteerism, the arts, and education; Whereas 102 courageous Korean immigrants arrived in the United States on January 13, 1903, initiating the first chapter of Korean immigration to the United States, the land of opportunity; Whereas these pioneer Korean immigrants faced tremendous social and economic obstacles as well as language barriers in the United States; Whereas in pursuit of the American dream, Korean immigrants initially served as farmworkers, wage laborers, and section hands throughout the United States; Whereas, through resilience, tenacious effort, and immense sacrifice, first generation Korean immigrants established a new home in a new land that became the home for future generations of Korean Americans; Whereas the centennial year of 2003 marked an important milestone in the history of Korean immigration; Whereas the House of Representatives passed House Resolution 487 to commemorate Korean American Day in the 109th Congress; Whereas the Senate passed Senate Resolution 283 to commemorate Korean American Day in the 109th Congress; Whereas, just as other immigrants before them, Korean Americans— (1) came to the United States seeking opportunity and a better life; and (2) have thrived in the United States due to strong work ethic, family bonds, and community spirit; Whereas Korean Americans have made significant contributions to the economic vitality of the United States and the global marketplace; Whereas Korean Americans have invigorated businesses, nonprofit organizations and other nongovernmental organizations, government, technology, medicine, athletics, arts and entertainment, journalism, religious communities, academic communities, and countless other facets of society in the United States