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  • Agreement With The United Korean Association Of Hawaii To Activate Former Makiki Library Building

Agreement with the United Korean Association of Hawai‘i to activate former Makiki Library building

O‘AHU -- Mayor Rick Blangiardi and the Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) are pleased to announce the realization of an agreement with the United Korean Association of Hawai‘i (TUKAH) to reactivate the community center, former library building, at Makiki District Park.

Beginning Aug. 1, 2022, TUKAH will assist DPR by providing funds, personnel, and services for the development, management, and operation of the community center on a volunteer basis. The second and third floors of the community center will be operated by TUKAH, with the organization additionally tasked with improving these areas to better provide their community enrichment services, including:

  • Active recreational classes for seniors and youth, including martial arts, dance, and other cultural classes.
  • Passive recreational activities, including reading areas and classes.
  • Media library services, including computer services.
  • Club social activities focused on seniors and youth.
  • Development of cultural and community exhibitions in coordination with the community.
  • Coordination and scheduling of use of the community center for community meetings and gatherings.

"This agreement affords the Korean community their first community center and it is long overdue," said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. "I truly believe it will supplement the already outstanding public resources here at Makiki District Park. Mahalo to TUKAH and our diligent City staff for working together towards achieving this common goal."

The agreement is valid for two years, with clauses allowing for the extension of the agreement on two-year intervals.

"Makiki District Park and other public spaces are crucial elements of our quality of life, as they can become focal points of culturally rich and vibrant community gathering places," said Honolulu City Councilmember Calvin Say. "We are grateful for TUKAH's partnership and are excited for the programs and activities that will re-invigorate the neighborhood."

TUKAH is a non-profit organization whose mission in part is to provide the community, particularly the Korean community, with social services and education. The area surrounding Makiki District Park is recognized as having one of the largest population and concentration of Korean businesses and residents in Hawai‘i.

"We are pleased to have this opportunity to share our resources and bring out the best aspects and qualities in the Korean community through cultural and enrichment programs and classes to benefit everyone," said TUKAH President Bong Yong Park. "We thank Mayor Blangiardi, Director Thielen, City staff, and members of the Neighborhood Board who have supported this community center project."

The first floor and building's basement will continue to be utilized for DPR administrative offices and activities.

The community center is a three-story building within Makiki District Park which formerly housed the Makiki Community Library. The library closed in 2018 after years of service and support from the Friends of the Makiki Community Library.

If you need an auxiliary aid/service, other accommodations due to a disability, or an interpreter for a language other than English in reference to this announcement, please contact the Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation at (808) 768-3003 on weekdays from 7:45 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. or email parks@honolulu.gov

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