Magazine
A legacy-driven media platform documenting Korean excellence in culture, economy, and identity
Author: Gabby Choi
Photo Credits: Jabin Choi & Dr. James Park
As the year-end approaches, news of sharing, donations, and social contributions emerge from various sectors. These uplifting stories convey courage and love within our communities. While some may be merely ceremonial, the social contribution advocated by James Park, the President of the Korean American Medical Association (KAMA) and Liver Transplant Medical Director at NYU School of Medicine, is neither ritualistic nor cliché.
Park carries a sense of debt towards the United States, which provided him with educational opportunities, his mentors who imparted wisdom, and the Korean community he belongs to. He has always cherished the desire to repay this debt someday. Along with many Korean American physicians, Park realizes it's time to make tangible efforts to create a better community.
We share warm reflections from our conversation with James Park, a scholar and physician striving to connect with society through the art of healing and acts of humanity.
NYU Langone Office
Introduction
Hello, could you please introduce yourself to our readers?
James Park: Hello, I am James Park, the Liver Transplant Medical Director at NYU School of Medicine. Thank you for inviting me to this interview.
Background and Move to the U.S.
When and why did you move to the United States?
I moved to the United States at 17 with my family. Initially, we settled in New York and now reside in New Jersey. My family includes my wife, two children, my parents, and my sibling.
Challenges and Career Choice
You moved during your teenage years, which might have been challenging. When did you first aspire to become a doctor?
Reflecting back, arriving in the United States as a teenager brought many challenges, including a sudden change in environment and language barriers. It led to an identity crisis. Although I tried part-time jobs, I realized that studying was the better path for me. My Taekwondo master’s wife was a doctor, and observing her work and serve the community influenced me. The profession’s appeal lies in lifelong learning and sharing my medical skills with others.
I am grateful for the opportunities in the U.S. and often think about returning the benefits I've received to society by using my skills for community service.
Education and Specialization
Where did you complete your education and medical training?
I studied Biology at the University of Rochester and graduated from the State University of New York at Buffalo Medical School. I completed internal medicine residency at NYU, pursued gastroenterology at the University of Pittsburgh, and specialized in transplant hepatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine before joining NYU in 2011.
Choice of Specialty
Why did you choose to specialize in liver diseases?
The liver is a complex organ that interacts with multiple body systems, requiring continuous study. Its complexity and the severity of related illnesses made it a challenging yet fulfilling field. The shortage of liver specialists influenced my decision.
Situation of Liver Health among Korean Americans
Based on your clinical experience, what is the state of liver health in the Korean American community?
Liver disease and cancer are significant causes of death among middle-aged Korean men. While vertical infection from hepatitis was once common, vaccination has reduced this. However, alcohol-related liver disease has increased, as have conditions stemming from stress and other illnesses like diabetes. Many are unaware as liver diseases often lack symptoms, leading to severe stages before detection.
Maintaining Liver Health
What steps are necessary for maintaining liver health?
Knowing one’s liver condition is crucial due to the lack of early symptoms. Regular liver function tests and early detection can lead to successful treatment. The Liver Society recommends annual liver test screenings. Dietary adjustments, like reducing carbohydrates and sodium, along with regular exercise, are vital. Prevention is always better than treatment.
Role as KAMA President
Could you introduce KAMA and share some accomplishments during your tenure?
The Korean American Medical Association (KAMA), established in 1974, comprises Korean American doctors across the U.S., with chapters in many states. As President, with a one-year term, I connect with various chapters and support events like the Annual Scientific Convention. This year's focus was on Precision Medicine, gathering participants worldwide to discuss healthcare advancements. We continue supporting community services and fostering medical student exchange programs with Korean Medical Association.
Community Services
What services does KAMA offer to the Korean community?
We conduct hepatitis screening and awareness programs on liver diseases and cancer among Asians. We support nonprofits like Esther Ha Foundation and Vision Care USA. Through research and community engagement, we aim to enhance medical practices and address health gaps.
Personal Interests
Do you have any hobbies?
Besides my professional work, I enjoy community activities. My hobbies include reading, watching films, and painting occasionally.
Reflections and Future Plans
What are your reflections on nearly 20 years in the medical profession, and what are your future plans?
Having moved to the U.S. as a teenager, I’ve been fortunate to receive numerous opportunities. I’m grateful for my mentors and wish to give back to society. Looking ahead, I want to advance medical research and support Korean American medical students in becoming leaders in healthcare.
James Park MD
President of Korean American Medical Association of USA
www.kamaus.org
Associate Professor of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine
Medical Director of Transplant Hepatology, NYU Langone Medical Center
Founding Director of NYU Langone Asian Liver Health Program
www.nyulangone.org/asianliverhealth
