A Tale of Two Cities

For over three decades, Garden Grove and Anyang have shared a strong bond, rooted in friendship since 1989. At the heart of our mission lies the Student Exchange Program, which has been flourishing since 1991. This program is the cornerstone of our efforts to spark cultural curiosity and foster appreciation among both high school students and adults.

Every January, the Sister City Association of Garden Grove eagerly hosts high school students from Anyang for an exciting week of exploring local landmarks and immersing themselves in the vibrant culture of America.

Each spring break, we’re excited to sponsor up to ten (10) enthusiastic juniors and seniors from the Garden Grove Unified School District (GGUSD) on a memorable journey to Anyang, Republic of Korea. There, they’ll connect with Korean host families, experience the magic of international travel, and create lasting friendships and unforgettable memories!

📍 Anyang, Republic of Korea

With an ancestry dating back to the Sixth Century, the area known as Anyang, Republic of Korea became a city in 1973. Anyang is a modern city of over 640,000 people, just 25 km southwest of Seoul. In a beautiful location of rolling hills, Anyang has become an industrial leader in the Korean economy since the Korean War.
The main products that are produced by Anyang include machinery, electronics, medicine, film and textiles. Many information technology industries have located in this regional area. It is also served by a regional transportation system, including rails, subways, and freeways. Some vestiges of natural beauty such as forests, scenic farmlands, and rolling hills still can be seen at outskirts of Anyang.
Today, Anyang is a fast-growing city that is nationally recognized as one of the best places to live and work. It has many attributes, including a fine educational system that features a multitude of schools and colleges.

📍 Garden Grove, California

In 1874, Dr. Alonzo Cook donated a portion of land to form the beginning of a central village southeast of Los Angeles. Dr. Cook suggested the name ‘Garden Grove,’ but because there was an absence of gardens, some people objected to the notion.
However, Cook declared it suitable by saying, “We’ll make it appropriate by planting trees, and making it beautiful.” The village quickly became a busy town with agriculture, business, and a railroad line from Los Angeles to Santa Ana running right near the center of commerce. After World War II, Garden Grove became one of the fastest growing communities in the United States. In 1956, the city incorporated.
As of 2000, the City of Garden Grove boasts a population of over 169,000 residents. The City is dynamic, and thrives in the heart of Orange County. The City maintains a balance of modern shopping centers, businesses, industrial complexes, and houses, while still keeping a strong sense of its roots due to its colorful history.