Daniel Dae Kim, Leonardo Nam & more to Be Honored at Unforgettable Gala

The 16th Annual Unforgettable Gala announced today the recipients of this year's awards to be given out at the annual event. A celebration of Asian American trailblazers in the entertainment industry, the gala dinner and award show will be held at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles on December 9, 2017. The Unforgettable Gala is the longest running event of its kind, honoring those who exemplify the strength and future of a thriving Asian American and Pacific Islander community in entertainment. This annual event is presented by BMW of NORTH AMERICA and hosted by Kore Asian Media.

This year's Unforgettable Gala will honor actor Leonardo Nam as Actor of the Year for his role on the popular HBO series "Westworld." Rising actor Ross Butler ("13 Reasons Why," "Riverdale") will take home the Male Breakout award, while rapper and comedian Awkwafina will receive the Female Breakout award. Actor Justin Chon ("Gook") will be honored with the Vanguard Award, and actor Daniel Dae Kim ("3AD," "The Good Doctor") and actress Grace Park, known most recently for their roles on "Hawaii Five-0," will be honored with BMW's Ultimate Drive award given to those who exemplify the devotion and the spirit of "The Ultimate Drive" in their careers. Dr. Mike Hong of M&L Hong Foundation, Dura Coat Products Inc. will receive the Philanthropy Award for his charitable contributions to the community. Additional honorees will be announced in the coming weeks.

"We are so honored for the recipients to join us this year. Through their work, they've helped shape the perspectives of generations through diverse storytelling. The unique backgrounds of our honorees mirror the strength and growth of the Asian American community as we look toward the future," said James Ryu, Kore Asian Media Publisher.

Entertainment for the evening will include:

? Kinjaz, a brotherhood of dancers known for their intricate choreography style and storytelling through dance, media and positive mentality. They have performed with artists like The Chainsmokers and TroyBoi. They were recent contestants on NBC's "World of Dance."

? East West Players, the longest-running professional theater of color in the country and the largest producing organization of Asian American artistic work, is pleased to present highlights from their groundbreaking 50-year history with performances by renowned stage and screen actors, including Gedde Watanabe ("Pacific Overtures"), Parvesh Cheena ("Crazy Ex-Girlfriend"), Deedee Magno Hall ("Steven Universe"), Alvin Ing ("Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.") and more.

As the presenting partner of the 2017 Unforgettable Gala, BMW of NORTH AMERICA continues its longstanding commitment to celebrating diversity. The gala is also supported by gold sponsors Private Internet Access and Pechanga Resort & Casino.

Recipient attendance anticipated, however, is subject to change.

About The Unforgettable Gala The Unforgettable Gala celebrates and recognizes influential Asian and Asian Pacific American voices who are at the forefront of popular culture and innovation. These individuals elevate our presence around the globe and inspire future generations. Founded in 2002, the black-tie affair honors both established and upcoming talent in the arts and entertainment. For more information on the Unforgettable Gala and how to become a sponsor, please visitUnforgettableGala.com.

About Kore Asian Media Kore Asian Media is the leading online destination for the Asian American experience, featuring timely stories on entertainment, tech/business, sports, and GAME CHANGERS in our community. Like its predecessors, the award-winning magazines KoreAm and Audrey, Kore provides a platform for our myriad voices, through compelling digital content and exciting events including the annual Unforgettable Awards. Kore Asian Media traces its roots back to 1990, when it was founded by Jung Shig Ryu, and his son, current co-publisher James Ryu, under the name KoreAm Journal. Kore Asian Media is a subsidiary of London Trust Media, Inc. (LTM), a diversified business focused on the technology and media industries. Its core companies include Private Internet Access and Hollywood Media.