Name/Korean name:Paul Nielsen, Lee Sang-Tae

First KAtCH event:
My first KAtCH event (and introduction to the KAD community) was KAtCH 10 in 2018.

Where did you grow up/Where do you live now?
I grew up in a small, rural town of Southwest Michigan. Returned to Michigan (Kalamazoo) just over a year ago after spending nearly 10 years in Indianapolis, Indiana. 

Tell us about yourself:
I was born in Seoul, and adopted at 4 months old. Like so many of us, I grew up in a homogenous white community. Through childhood, and really up until 2018, I largely compartmentalized my Korean identity in an attempt to blend in. Since returning from the 2023 IKAA Gathering in Seoul this past July, I’ve felt deeply convicted to reclaim my Korean-ness and more intentionally integrate our culture into everyday life. Of course it’s complicated, but has been healing and I’m so grateful for the KAD community in supporting me through this process.

In terms of my day job, I work in Corporate Social Responsibility supporting community relations efforts for Stryker – a medical device company based in Kalamazoo, MI. I’m married (Marissa) and am appa to my lovely 2 year old daughter (Ayla).

You’ll likely KAtCH me doing the following
You can KAtCH me staying active through exercise and a handful of sports leagues, working on my Korean language skills, cooking, and spending time with family.

Why do you enjoy being involved with the KAtCH community?
KAtCH instantly welcomed me into the KAD community, and has played a pivotal role through this ongoing journey of embracing my Korean identity. It’s been so powerful to see just how deep even brand new KAD relationships start, by virtue of our shared experiences. KAtCH is an invaluable hub for Korean culture in the Midwest, and I’m grateful for the intentionality with which KAtCH creates a safe space for us to be completely seen, heard, and understood.

Favorite restaurant(s) in Chicagoland:
While I don’t profess to be an expert in Chicago fare, I’ve never had a bad experience at Cho Sun Ok!

Find me/Social Media:
Instagram: @pauljnielsen