The Korean Resource Center believes in the transformative power of education. To support Korean and Asian American/Pacific Islander students, KRC is proud to announce the 2025 KRC Scholarship, aimed at fostering academic success and opportunity.

KRC will offer three (3) scholarship awards of $2000 each. A special category has been set aside for Undocumented students only. Preference will be given to low income and other underrepresented students.

1. Jung Bong Puri Scholarship: Puri (뿌리) means the “root”. We place value in cultural diversity, and knowing one’s roots is the starting point. This category is specifically for those who identify as Korean Americans.
2. ‍Jung Bong Hongik Scholarship: Hongik (홍익인간) refers to the founding spirit of Korea (고조선, Gojoseon kingdom), and it means “ to widely benefit humankind”‍
3. Dream Scholarship: KRC has been fiercely working to protect the dreams of Undocumented youth. The Dream Scholarship Award is exclusively designated for undocumented students.

Eligibility:

• Asian American and Pacific Islander identifying
• Demonstrated financial need
• Currently enrolled at a college or university in the U.S as a part-time (6 or more units) or full-time degree seeking student, or will be enrolled in Fall of 2025.
• Graduate students are NOT eligible
• International students are eligible
• Should live in the US for at least 2 years and is planning to stay in the US after the study
• Must join the award ceremony (at least via video-conference or parent attending on behalf of the awardee) in May, 2025
• Automatic disqualification of any candidate who does not supply all the requisite materials or follow directions by stated guidelines
• Re-application of a previous awardee is not allowed

Required Documents:

• Letter of Recommendation (check application link for further details)‍
• Tuition Statement
• Financial Information Breakdown (check application link for further details)‍
• Proof of College Acceptance (Required for prospective college students only)

Optional Documents:

• List of awards and extracurricular activities.
• GPA and transcripts (photocopies accepted).

Essay Requirements:

• Main Essay (500-800 words in English or 350-550 words in Korean) – Choose one topic:
  • Which of KRC’s mottos ("Live Right," "Know Your Roots," "Live in Strength," "Live in Harmony") resonates with you and why? Explicitly mention the motto(s) in your essay or title.
  • Identify a critical challenge in your community or society and propose a solution.
• Short Essay (2-4 paragraphs) – Describe your financial hardship and challenges.

Note: Essays can be submitted in English or Korean. If submitting in Korean, an English translation is optional but encouraged for review purposes.

Deadline: April 20, 2025

Contact: scholarship@krcla.org