Thank you to all our members and guests for making The Korea Society's 2010 Annual Dinner such a great success. General Colin L. Powell and General Paik Sun Yup received the Society's Van Fleet Award on behalf of veterans of the Korean War, and they spoke to the audience about the enduring partnership between the United States and the Republic of Korea. President Barack Obama, in a pre-recorded video recording, also highlighted the strength of the U.S.-ROK relationship, as did Republic of Korea President Lee Myung Bak through a message delivered by Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Yung-woo Chun. Our guests were treated to remarks by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon, and we were especially honored to have over 50 Korean War veterans in attendance to help us commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the beginning of the Korean War. Their presence made the evening truly one of poignant remembrance and heartfelt tribute.

Videotaped Remarks of President Obama for the Korea Society 2010 Annual Dinner

Good evening everyone.  I appreciate the opportunity to send my wishes as you celebrate the unbreakable bonds between the United States and the Republic of Korea.  This year, of course, holds special meaning for us all.

We recall that it was exactly sixty years ago, on another June day, when the Communist armies poured across the 38th parallel and threatened the very survival of the Republic of Korea.

We honor all those who rallied to her defense -- the fallen whose names are etched in sacred memorials, and veterans like General Paik who join you tonight.

We salute the resolve of the people of the Republic of Korea – who, from the ruins of war, built an economic miracle, a vibrant democracy, a society where a child could grow up to be Secretary General of the United Nations, and a nation that is now a regional and global leader.

We thank all those who have stood with the Republic of Korea to keep her safe and strong -- especially our Korean American friends, the Korea Society, and generations of Americans in uniform, including my friend, General Colin Powell.

Most of all, we reaffirm the enduring alliance between our countries -- an alliance rooted in shared sacrifice, common values, mutual interest and mutual respect; an alliance that is stronger than ever.  And, as we have seen in recent weeks, our alliance is needed more than ever.

The attack on the navy vessel Cheonan was an unprovoked act of aggression by North Korea.  As I have told President Lee, I and the American people offer our deepest condolences, especially to the families of the 46 sailors who were lost.

To our friends from the Republic of Korea who join you tonight, I say this: you and President Lee have shown extraordinary patience and self-restraint.  You have shown the world what true strength and confidence looks like.  And you have the full support of your friend and ally, the United States of America.

In the days ahead, our governments will continue to consult closely, and I look forward to meeting with President Lee this month in Toronto.  Together, we will ensure our readiness and deter aggression.  We will work with allies and partners to hold North Korea accountable, including at the United Nations Security Council, making it clear that security and respect for North Korea will never come through aggression, but only by upholding its obligations.  And as I said during my visit to Seoul and Osan last fall, the commitment of the United States to the security and defense of the Republic of Korea will never waver.

Going forward, we will pursue our shared vision of our alliance for the 21st century.  As the host of the G-20 Summit in November and the Nuclear Security Summit in two years, the Republic of Korea will continue to assume its rightful place as a leader on the world stage.

And every step of the way, our two nations will be guided by the same sense of solidarity and shared sacrifice that has defined us for 60 years -- Katchi Kapshida.  We go together.  We go together in these difficult days.  And we will continue to go together in the months and years to come.

Thank you, and have a wonderful evening.

Remarks of President Lee Myung-bak for the Korea Society 2010 Annual Dinner

Chairman Hubbard, President Minton, Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, Veterans of the Korean War, Distinguished Guests,

Let me extend my congratulations as the Korea Society holds its Annual Dinner.  This year's event is especially meaningful since we are commemorating the 60th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War together with veterans of the War.  I would also like to express my sincere congratulations to the recipients of the 2010 Van Fleet Award, General Paik Sun Yup (백선엽) and Secretary Colin Powell.

The history of the Korea Society is emblematic of how the deep-rooted and splendid friendship between Korea and the United States has evolved over the decades.  Our two countries have shed blood together as brothers-in-arms in the defense of freedom and democracy, and are now longstanding partners in the common pursuit of global peace.

Korea emerged from the ruins of the Korean War to become the world's 13th largest economic powerhouse. It went from the receiving end of foreign aid to become a donor country helping others in need around the world.  More recently, Korea was able to more successfully weather the global financial crisis.  It will be hosting the G20 Summit this coming November and the Second Nuclear Security Summit in 2012.

The Korean War veterans gracing us with their presence today have every reason to take immense pride as they see Korea playing a responsible role in the service of global peace and prosperity of all humanity.  Know that the Republic of Korea will always remember you.

Distinguished guests,

The recipients of the 2010 Van Fleet Award, General Paik Sun Yup (백선엽) and Secretary Powell, are remarkable historic testaments to the Korea-US alliance.

General Paik is Korea's greatest war hero, having fought on the frontlines with dauntless valor alongside US troops during the Korean War.  Secretary Powell, himself having once served in uniform in Korea to help safeguard peace, would later become a Secretary of State firmly committed to strengthening the Korea-US alliance.

On behalf of the Korean people, I wish to once again congratulate them both for receiving the distinction on this 60th year since the beginning of our "blood-forged" alliance.

Today, the Korea-US alliance is expanding and deepening across a whole range of areas including economy and culture, not to mention security.  Our alliance will advance into a partnership of far-reaching global scope committed to contributing to peace and stability in the world.

In the realm of security, Korea and the US will stand side by side in responding firmly to forces threatening the peace, based on a robust combined defense posture and "extended deterrence."

I still vividly remember attending the Annual Dinner a little more than two years ago.  I believe, just as you welcomed me warmly as a friend from afar, you will provide your continued assistance and support for the development of the Korea-US alliance.

I convey my best wishes for the everlasting prosperity of the Korea Society, and the good health and happiness of everyone here.

Thank you.

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