Who is Steve Rhee: A Personal Story of Dedication and Service
By Steve Rhee
I want to share a bit more about who I am, what drives me, and why I am running for Arcadia City Council. Many of you might not know my full story, so I thought I’d take this opportunity to give you a closer look at my background and the values I hold dear.
I’ve lived in Arcadia for 15 years now, but my journey began in Orange County. I’m a proud son of immigrants from South Korea. My father came to this country with just $300 in his pocket, and for the first few months, he lived in a doghouse while working multiple jobs. Despite those tough beginnings, he persevered, eventually saving enough to rent a room and start our family’s nursery business in Orange County. It was the only Korean-owned nursery in Southern California back in the 70s, and it became the go-to place for Koreans across the region looking for everything from exotic fruit trees to special fertilizers.
Growing up, I spent my weekends and summers working in the nursery. I’d move trees, dig holes, and do just about anything that needed to be done. It was hard work, and while I may have complained back then, I now realize how much those experiences shaped me. My father’s tough love taught me the value of hard work and responsibility—lessons I carry with me to this day.
Fast forward to today, I’ve built a successful career in commercial real estate. In fact, I’m currently the number four RE/MAX commercial agent in North America. It’s not something I say to brag, but rather to show that I know how to get things done. In real estate, you have to find a balance between what the landlord wants and what the tenant can afford. It’s all about negotiation and finding that middle ground—skills that I believe are crucial for public service as well.
As someone who’s deeply connected to the Arcadia community, I have the privilege of serving as a trustee for the Arcadia Education Foundation, a board member of the Chamber of Commerce, treasurer and board member for Downtown Arcadia, a Stakeholder for the City of Arcadia’s Homelessness Taskforce, an annual volunteer for the homelessness count, and a long-time volunteer with the PTSA at my kids’ schools. My wife and I also donate to several local causes because we believe in working hard and giving back. These roles have given me firsthand insight into the issues we face as a city, whether it’s the challenges of crime and homelessness or the concerns around traffic and safety.
I’ve also seen the struggles our local businesses have endured, especially in the aftermath of COVID. Running a small business myself, I know how rising costs, inflation, and labor shortages have squeezed margins. I talk to restaurant owners who are working harder than ever, only to make less money. That’s something I take seriously, and it’s why I’m committed to supporting our local businesses and creating an environment where they can thrive.
One of the cornerstones of my campaign is fiscal responsibility. I know many of you work multiple jobs or care for elderly family members, all while trying to make ends meet. I’m running a self-funded campaign because I don’t want to owe any favors to special interests. The only people I owe are you—the citizens, taxpayers, and business owners of Arcadia.
I’m running for City Council because I want to represent you and work on the issues that matter most to our community.
I believe my experience in business, my deep ties to Arcadia, and my dedication to hard work make me the right choice for this role.
I’m here to serve you, and I would be honored to have your vote.
You can watch my podcast on YouTube to learn more
—Steve Rhee, Candidate for Arcadia City Council, District 4