THE KOREA SOCIETY is a private, nonprofit, nonpartisan, 501(c)(3) organization with individual and corporate members that is dedicated solely to the promotion of greater awareness, understanding and cooperation between the people of the United States and Korea. In pursuit of its mission, the Society arranges programs that facilitate discussion, exchanges and research on topics of vital interest to both countries in the areas of public policy, business, education, intercultural relations and the arts. Funding for these programs is derived from contributions, endowments, grants, membership dues and program fees. From its base in New York City, the Society serves audiences across the country through its own outreach efforts and by forging strategic alliances with counterpart organizations in other cities throughout the United States as well as in Korea.

The election of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States ushers in a new era for America and its relations with the world. As one who strongly supported Mr. Obama’s election, I believe that the work of The Korea Society will be enhanced during his presidency. He is committed to strengthening the US-Korean alliance, and using that alliance as the foundation on which to pursue the goal of complete and verifiable denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. These are goals which are at the heart of The Korea Society’s efforts across the board.

In meetings held with North Korean visitors to the United States during the transition period, efforts were made by The Korea Society to assure the North Koreans that the Obama administration is committed to build on the diplomatic gains achieved during the last two years of the Bush administration. The prospect of a smooth transition from President Bush to President Obama was welcomed by the North Koreans. These meetings help pave the way for a strong continuation of The Korea Society programs that are directed toward enhancing relations with North Korea.

I urge all readers of this Web-site to get involved with The Korea Society’s programs, and to become supporting members of our organization. A truly exciting period in Korean-American relations lies directly ahead of us.

Donald P. Gregg
Chairman