Did you know one of Southern Colorado’s most trusted news voices is a Korean immigrant? Peter Choi, a multimedia journalist for KOAA5, brings a unique perspective to Colorado airwaves.

His journey into journalism began with an unexpected passion: “At one point, I dreamed of becoming a voice actor; I spent hours practicing impressions, including mimicking American news anchors."

Looking back, he thinks those playful impersonations not only fueled his love for performance but also helped his pick up English in a unique way. After graduating high school in Littleton, Colorado, Peter studied at Seattle Pacific University. 

“I pursued internships and gained real-world experience,” he said. “One defining moment was when I had to cover a school shooting on my own campus as a student journalist. That experience showed me the gravity and responsibility of journalism, and it solidified my commitment to the profession.”

 The feelings of gravity and responsibility now define Peter’s work. He leverages his identity to ask deeper questions: “I often ask myself: how would this issue be addressed in Korea?  or what approaches do other countries take?“ he explains, relating stories like homelessness in the U.S and how Korean society may try to solve those challenges.

"My identity as a Korean journalist gives me a broader lens through which to view stories."

–Peter Choi.

He adds, “That perspective allows me to move beyond stereotypes and surface-level narratives. It pushes me to consider multiple angles, so my reporting can remain balanced and rooted in empathy.”

And what has been most challenging? “The hardest part has been learning how to tell stories that remain truthful, balanced, and trustworthy while also honoring the people at the center of them. Journalism isn’t just about gathering facts,” says Peter.

He’s reported on stories like how the City of Colorado Springs is tackling homelessness to an Iranian asylum seeker being detained by ICE in Aurora. It’s about listening with genuine care and ensuring that individuals never feel reduced to “topics.” Building trust, growing his skills, and carrying the weight of responsibility that comes with this role have all been challenging, but they are also what make the work so meaningful to him.

As a multimedia journalist, Peter has the power to pitch, produce, and share stories to viewers watching KOAA5 in Colorado Springs and Pueblo. On a station that reaches close to a million viewers, Peter’s journalism makes Asian voices more visible in the media.

“I hope people will remember me as a Korean journalist who worked to connect communities through storytelling. If a young Asian boy sees me on TV and realizes he could grow up to tell stories too, then I’ll know I’ve done something worthwhile.” 

Follow and connect with Peter Choi on Instagram @peterwjchoi. Thank you to Peter for showing that Asian voices matter and passions can lead to meaningful careers.