APAH Month Spotlight, an NYC celebration  

By Amanda Moses  

May marks Asian Pacific American Heritage (APAH) Month, a celebration recognizing the achievements, influence, and cultural contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders throughout the United States. From music and film to fashion, food, and literature, Asian culture has become deeply interwoven into the American experience. 

The Spring Creek Sun is spotlighting artists and public figures whose work continues to bridge cultures and inspire audiences across generations. 

Jet Li kicks off APAH Month in NYC 

For decades, Jet Li has remained one of the most influential martial arts stars in cinema history, helping introduce Chinese martial arts films to global audiences through iconic action roles and philosophical storytelling. 

Now, the legendary actor is entering a more reflective chapter with the release of his new book, Beyond Life and Death: The Way of True Freedom. In the memoir, Li shares 10 personal insights drawn from his celebrated film career, life experiences, spiritual philosophies, and more than 30 years of Buddhist practice. 

Ahead of a fan book signing at Barnes & Noble Fifth Avenue, Li also helped launch AAPI Heritage Month celebrations at the Empire State Building during a special lighting ceremony in partnership with Gold House, honoring Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. 

Tri-State Stars 

Jay Chang from New Jersey to South Korea and Back 

New Jersey native Jay Chang has emerged as one of the rising Korean American stars making waves in K-pop. The singer-songwriter first gained attention through the survival competition series Boys Planet before debuting as a member of ONE PACT and BDU. 

Inspired by his father’s love of music, Chang pursued his dreams overseas and is now building his career in South Korea as both an idol group member and solo artist. He is set to bring his solo tour to Actors Temple Theatre on June 6. 

For Chang, music is more than a profession; it is a calling. 

“For me, I’ve come to realize that I’m very passionate about music, and any opportunity that I can to do that in different scenarios, I will take,” Chang told the Spring Creek Sun. 

Le SSERAFIM’s Huh Yunjin 

As a Korean American growing up in Albany, Huh Yunjin faced the uncertainty and sacrifices that often come with chasing a dream in entertainment. Today, she stands as one of the breakout stars of LE SSERAFIM, a group celebrated for its themes of confidence, resilience, and female empowerment. 

Last September, Yunjin reflected on her journey while performing at Prudential Center during LE SSERAFIM’s first North American tour. Standing before thousands of fans, she recalled once sitting in the audience as a young girl dreaming of one day performing on that very stage. 

“I’ve been thinking about what to talk about tonight for the past month because what I share tonight, my words and my feelings carry the weight of eight years,” Yunjin said emotionally. “Eight years ago, I was sitting here in the crowd dreaming of one day being on stage.” 

After rehearsals, Yunjin revealed she returned to the very seat where she once watched her favorite artists perform, reflecting on how far she had come. 

“I truly felt like the luckiest person alive today,” she said. “It feels so insane, so humbling to be here living this dream with my best friends. Thank you for making this my reality.” 

Before tearfully embracing fellow member Kim Chaewon, Yunjin shared one final thought with the crowd: “I can’t believe this is my life, guys.” 

Photos by Amanda Moses