Korean-American urges political careers

"While Korean parents tell their children to become doctors or lawyers, they generally do not tell them to take the career path of politician or civil servant. However, to promote the Korean-American social standing in America, many able Korean-Americans need to enter into fields related to politics."

Choi Masa, 45, a second-generation Korean-American currently holding the post of trade director for Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development in the state of Washington, said August 15 that more Koreans need to enter into the U.S. mainstream. "Koreans are a very capable group, and the future looks bright," Choi said.

Previous to her political career, she worked as a high school teacher and as a middle management professional at a bank. She succeeded twice in her bid for the post of Seattle`s Municipal Assembly and was selected for her current post last October. Through a recommendation by the Secretary of Commerce Norman Mineta, she concurrently holds the post of chairman for the White House Commission for Asia-Pacific.

What is the responsibility of a state trade director?

"I am responsible for attracting trade and investment for the state of Washington,¡± she explained. ¡°Our state, Washington, is a home to world`s largest enterprises, Microsoft, Amazon.com, Boeing and Nintendo, among others. We would like to build a greater exchange with Korea. Currently, there are about 160 personnel under my office, and we have a budget of US$40 million a year."

What were the forces that made it possible for a Korean to attain such a post?

"Much of it was the Democratic Party`s philosophy of placing capability above the issue of skin color or gender,¡± she said. ¡°President Clinton, as well as Governor Gary Locke, who selected me for the post, feel the same way."

Is it true that the Democratic Party has greater concern for the minorities?

"The policies of the two parties are very different. For example, while the Democrats are calling for increased spending for the improvement of educational facilities and public schools, the Republicans oppose it. Among minorities, there are not that many who could afford private institutions. For Koreans who place education at the top of list of importance, our only choice is the Democratic Party."