Consulate of the Republic of Korea in Anchorage

Our Consulate has jurisdiction over the State of Alaska and is located in Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska.

Alaska was under Russian rule following Russia’s expansion into the region from the 17th century onward. In 1867, the U.S. government purchased Alaska from the Russian Empire for $7.2 million (equivalent to $163 million in today’s value), and Alaska subsequently became a U.S. territory. Alaska officially became the 49th state of the United States in 1959. With a population of approximately 740,000, it is by far the largest state in terms of area (about 17 times the size of South Korea). Geopolitically, Alaska is a strategically important location for the United States and a crossroads for air transportation and logistics between East Asia and North America. Alaska also possesses abundant natural resources, including oil and natural gas, further drawing attention to its importance and potential.

Alaska is also home to approximately 7,000 members of the Korean community, primarily residing in and around Anchorage. They are active in various fields and serve as a strong bridge between Korea and Alaska.

Our Consulate in Anchorage was established as a Consulate General in 1980. It was closed in 1999 in the aftermath of the 1997 Asian financial crisis, but, recognizing the importance of Alaska, it was reopened as a Consular Office in 2008. Our Consulate continues to work to promote the rights and interests of the Korean community in Alaska and foster unity within the community, while also providing protection for Korean nationals abroad and various consular services.

Furthermore, building on the solid foundation of the U.S.-ROK alliance, which has lasted for more than 70 years, we will continue to promote exchanges and cooperation between Korea and Alaska, including local-government exchanges, while also making continued efforts through public diplomacy to further raise awareness of Korea within the local community.

We appreciate your continued interest in and support for the Consulate’s endeavors.