AUSTIN, TX — A bill proposing the installation of highway signs marking the Koreatown district in Dallas has passed the Texas House Transportation Committee, moving closer to becoming law.

House Bill 3208, authored by Rep. Rafael Anchía (D–103) and co-authored by several bipartisan members, was approved in a revised form and has been referred to the House floor for further consideration.

During the committee hearing, Rep. Anchía described Koreatown as one of the most vibrant economic and cultural districts in Dallas. He noted that the area, once neglected, has seen a resurgence driven by Korean businesses, contributing to a local GDP higher than that of NorthPark Mall.

Community leaders and Korean American residents offered testimony in strong support of the bill. Charles Park, president of the Council of Korean Elders in North Texas, reflected on the 2023 state-level recognition of Koreatown, marking 120 years since the first Korean immigrants arrived in the U.S. He emphasized that official signage would honor this legacy while boosting visibility and economic activity in the Harry Hines and Royal Lane corridors.

Andrew Kim, president of the Korean Society of Dallas, echoed that sentiment, stating that the signs would serve both practical and symbolic purposes—guiding travelers and affirming the cultural pride of local Korean entrepreneurs.

Ruth Wang, a Korean adoptee and U.S. Army veteran with 37 years of service, also voiced support. “Growing up in Nebraska, I had little access to Korean culture. Now, Koreatown gives Texans and visitors a chance to experience our traditions firsthand,” she said.

Dallas City Councilman Omar Narvaez noted that the city has already invested $2 million in economic development in the Koreatown area and welcomed further growth, highlighting that the district now generates more sales tax revenue than even NorthPark Mall.

Responding to concerns about costs, Rep. Anchía clarified that the signs would be funded by the Korean community, not the state. The bill has been assigned a “zero fiscal note,” meaning it imposes no financial burden on the state budget.

The Korean American Chamber of Commerce in North Texas hailed the committee’s approval as a major step forward, pledging community support to ensure the signage becomes a reality.

Catherine Wahrmund [email protected]