The first significant immigration by the Koreans was witnessed in the early 20th century. Notably, the Koreans moved to Hawaii, where they sought to labor the sugar plantations. At that time, the native Hawaii population was decreasing drastically, creating a shortage of labor. This was despite the growing demand for sugar across the United States. As such, the Korean immigrants acted as a source of cheap labor for Hawaii. Contending the deteriorating social and economic conditions at home, the Koreans perceived America as a land of opportunities and were willing to provide labor.
Although the majority of the Korean immigrants, who were mainly bachelors, hoped to make substantial savings and return home, the high cost of living in the country made them unable to save for their return trips. The Gentlemen’s agreement of 1907 deterred more migrations to America, although it allowed the already existing settlers to bring their wives to the US. This encouraged the ‘picture marriage system’ where men could agree on a bride and legalize their movements. Many Korean women were enthusiastic about the marriage system due to the current opportunities to access an education system.
The Koreans and Chinese immigrated to provide labor in the US. However, how they adjusted to the social and economic system differed significantly. By the end of the 19th century, the Chinese had become the most prominent Asian community providing labor in California. Unlike the Koreans in Hawaii, Chinese settlers provided labor in railway and mining industries. However, the Chinese Exclusion Act t created a barrier for new immigrants to America and terminated their stay. This was not the case in Hawaii, where the Koreans were allowed to stay and bring their wives and families.