Maryland Hangul Day Establishment

Overview

Arirang USA Community is conducting legislative activities to establish October 9th as an official Hangul Day in the State of Maryland. Hangul, originated from Hunminjeongeum promulgated by King Sejong in 1446, was inscribed in the UNESCO Memory of the World Register in 1997. Following California's establishment of Hangul Day in 2019, we aim to achieve the first such designation on the U.S. East Coast.

Progress

• 2019.09 - Hangul Day Establishment Committee formed (Chair: Prof. Ji Yong-yeon, Towson Univ.)
• 2020.01 - Bill HB0122 introduced by Del. Mark Chang; Sen. Susan Lee pursuing Senate version
• 2020.03 - House subcommittee hearing held — session ended due to COVID-19
• 2020.10 - 574th anniversary of Hunminjeongeum celebrated; 5,443 Korean signatures collected
• Ongoing - Pursuing simultaneous House & Senate bill introduction; signature campaign continues

How to Participate

Join the online petition for Hangul Day legislation, or send letters and emails of support to your local representatives. You can also participate in the annual Hangul Day ceremony and Korean school essay competitions. Contact Arirang USA Community for more details.