CDA Blog #17: Hurricane Relief Efforts

In the last month, three different hurricanes made landfall in the United States.  Hurricane Harvey brought unprecedented flooding across the U.S. southern coast, with record rainfall and extreme winds causing widespread damage to homes and other buildings. Following Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane Irma hit Florida, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.  Hurricane Irma was a ... Read More»

By | October 26, 2017 | Topics: Chargé d’Affaires ad interim | Tags:

CDA Blog #4 – Secretary of State Rex Tillerson’s visit to Korea

On March 17, I had the pleasure of welcoming U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson to the Republic of Korea (ROK).  By visiting so early in his tenure, the Secretary underscored the importance of the U.S.-ROK Alliance and the strong foundation on which it rests. The Secretary’s schedule in the ROK was tightly packed, and ... Read More»

By | March 30, 2017 | Topics: Chargé d’Affaires ad interim | Tags:

08/11/16 – Statement by Secretary Kerry: The Republic of Korea’s Independence Day

Press Statement John Kerry Secretary of State The Republic of Korea’s Independence Day August 11, 2016 On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I extend my congratulations to the people of the Republic of Korea on the celebration of your Independence Day on August 15. Our bilateral partnership continues to thrive based on ... Read More»

By | August 11, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders, U.S. - South Korea​ | Tags: ,

International Religious Freedom Report

Antony J. Blinken Deputy Secretary of State Press Briefing Room Washington, DC August 10, 2016 DEPUTY SECRETARY BLINKEN: Morning, everyone. It is my pleasure today to join you to present the State Department’s International Religious Freedom Report for 2015. I especially want to thank Ambassador Saperstein and his entire team for their hard work to ... Read More»

By | August 10, 2016 | Topics: News, Official Reports, Reports | Tags: , , ,

07/26/16 – Remarks in Honor of the 26th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act

Remarks Special Briefing Judith E. Heumann Special Advisor for International Disability Rights Washington, DC July 26, 2016 MS TRUDEAU: Thank you, everyone, and welcome to the State Department. It is an extraordinary pleasure today, in honor of the 26th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, to introduce State Department Special Advisor for International Disability ... Read More»

By | July 26, 2016 | Topics: Global Issues | Tags: ,

July 25, 2016 (Photo)

U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission Marc Knapper (left) and Minister-Counselor for Public Affairs Robert Ogburn (right) pose with program participants after finishing the Embassy Youth Forum: Real People Talking event on “Current Trends in U.S.-Korea Relations And Career Paths and the Life of a Diplomat, including His Role as DCM” at the American Center Korea. Read More»

By | July 25, 2016 | Topics: American Center Korea, Deputy Chief of Mission, Photo Gallery | Tags:

07/25/16 – Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, 2016

Proclamation The White House Office of the Press Secretary ANNIVERSARY OF THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT July 25, 2016 For Immediate Release BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION On July 26, 1990, our Nation marked a pivotal moment in history for Americans with disabilities. Fueled by a chorus of voices ... Read More»

By | July 25, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders, Global Issues | Tags: , ,

07/25/16 – Remarks Before Meeting With Republic of Korea Foreign Minister Yun Byung-se

Remarks John Kerry Secretary of State July 25, 2016 SECRETARY KERRY: Let me just say to my press what a pleasure it is to see Minister Yun Byung-se. The Republic of Korea and the United States obviously have very, very key issues right now, particularly the challenge of the D.P.R.K. and its irresponsible nuclear activities ... Read More»

By | July 25, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders, U.S. Policy | Tags: , ,

07/25/16 – Press Availability in Vientiane, Laos

John Kerry Secretary of State Vientiane, Laos July 25, 2016 SECRETARY KERRY: Well, good afternoon, everybody. On behalf of President Obama and all of the American people, I want to express my deepest condolences to the families of those whose loved ones were killed in the horrific attack in Sagamihara, Japan this morning. And our ... Read More»

By | July 25, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders, U.S. Policy | Tags: , ,

ASEAN Regional Forum: U.S.-ASEAN Ministerial Meeting

ASEAN Regional Forum John Kerry Secretary of State U.S.-ASEAN Ministerial Meeting Vientiane, Laos July 25-26, 2016 Secretary Kerry traveled to Vientiane, Laos, from July 25-26 to participate in the ASEAN Regional Forum, the East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers Meeting, the ASEAN-U.S. Ministerial Meeting, and the Lower Mekong Initiative Ministerial Meeting. At these ASEAN meetings the ... Read More»

By | July 25, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders, U.S. Policy | Tags: ,

07/21/16 – Transforming the Alliance Through New Frontiers of Cooperation

Ambassador Mark Lippert Korea Press Center July 21, 2016 : Introduction Thank you, President Song (STEPI), Assistant Minister Min (MSIP), and Dr. Ahn (STEPI moderator) for your welcome and kind introduction.  To the distinguished guests and members of the press who have joined us today, thank you and good morning. It is a pleasure to ... Read More»

By | July 21, 2016 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches | Tags: ,

07/20/16 – FACT SHEET: President Obama’s Commitment to Global Development

Fact Sheet President Obama The White House Office of the Press Secretary July 20, 2016 Building on Over a Half Century of U.S. Leadership Over the past eight years, President Obama has elevated sustainable development to a core pillar of American foreign policy.  On Wednesday July 20th, the President will host the White House Summit ... Read More»

By | July 20, 2016 | Topics: Economic Affairs, Policy | Tags: ,

07/19/16 – Partnerships Matter: Building the Right Team to #ZAPZika

July 19, 2016 With tens of thousands of confirmed cases in the Americas, Zika is a growing public health emergency in the Western Hemisphere and beyond. While we are harnessing all of our available resources to fight Zika here at home and abroad, we are also calling on communities, companies, and civil society to act ... Read More»

By | July 19, 2016 | Topics: Global Issues | Tags: ,

07/18/16 – PEPFAR and DREAMS Partners Announce Winners of the $85 Million DREAMS Innovation Challenge

July 18, 2016 $40 Million Targeted on Keeping Girls in Secondary School Durban, South Africa – Today, the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR); Janssen Pharmaceutica NV (Janssen), one of the Janssen pharmaceutical companies of Johnson & Johnson; and ViiV Healthcare announced a combined $85 million investment to support 56  DREAMS Innovation Challenge  winners* in 10 sub-Saharan ... Read More»

By | July 18, 2016 | Topics: Global Issues | Tags: ,

07/14/16 – Remarks With South Korean First Vice Foreign Minister Lim Sung-Nam And Japanese Vice Foreign Minister Shinsuke Sugiyama

Remarks Antony J. Blinken Deputy Secretary of State Honolulu, Hawaii July 14, 2016 Thank you very much. Good afternoon. Aloha. It is a sincere pleasure to be here in Hawaii with my colleagues and friends – Vice Foreign Minister Lim, Vice Foreign Minister Sugiyama – for the fourth deputy-level trilateral meeting of the United States, ... Read More»

By | July 14, 2016 | Topics: Policy, U.S. - South Korea​ | Tags:

07/14/16 – Closing Remarks at the Internet Governance Forum USA

Remarks Ambassador Daniel A. Sepulveda Deputy Assistant Secretary and U.S. Coordinator for International Communications and Information Policy, Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs Center for Strategic and International Studies Washington, DC July 14, 2016 (As delivered) Thank you, Shane, for the introduction. I also want to thank the U.S. IGF Multistakeholder Planning Committee for planning this ... Read More»

By | July 14, 2016 | Topics: Global Issues | Tags: ,

July 13, 2016 (Photo)

U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Chairman Stephen Burns visited the new Shin-Kori 4 nuclear power plant during the July 10-16 trip to South Korea and examined the newest nuclear power stimulator of Korea to support America’s expanding energy partnership with Korea demonstration. Read More»

By | July 13, 2016 | Topics: Photo Gallery | Tags:

07/13/16 – Deputy Secretary’s Remarks at Public-Private Sector Roundtable Discussion on Zika

Remarks Heather Higginbottom Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources Washington, DC July 13, 2016 DEPUTY SECRETARY HIGGINBOTTOM: Thank you, Jim, very much. And I also want to echo your thanks to your team, to you, to OES, the interagency, and all of our partners for arranging this forum today, and importantly, to all ... Read More»

By | July 13, 2016 | Topics: Global Issues | Tags:

07/12/16 – Statement by John Kirby on Decision in the Philippines-China Arbitration

Press Statement John Kirby Philippines-China Arbitration July 12, 2016 The decision today by the Tribunal in the Philippines-China arbitration is an important contribution to the shared goal of a peaceful resolution to disputes in the South China Sea.  We are still studying the decision and have no comment on the merits of the case, but ... Read More»

By | July 12, 2016 | Topics: U.S. Policy | Tags: , ,

07/05/16 – Ambassador Lippert Announces Upgrade of Official U.S. Presence in Busan

Remarks Ambassador Mark Lippert Busan, Republic of Korea July 05, 2015 : U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Korea Mark Lippert made the following announcement at 16:30 on July 5, 2016, during a Press Availability at Busan City Hall:   We are very pleased to share with the city and people of Busan and the ... Read More»

By | July 5, 2016 | Topics: Ambassador, Press Releases | Tags:

Independence Day

Independence Day, also commonly referred to as the Fourth of July, is the national day of the United States of America. It is a federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. On that date, the Continental Congress approved the Declaration, setting the 13 colonies on the road to ... Read More»

By | July 4, 2016 | Topics: American Center Korea

07/04/16 – Remarks by the President at Fourth of July Celebration

Remarks President Obama 4th of July Celebration July 4, 2016 THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you so much!  (Applause.)  Ms. Janelle Monáe!  Come on out here and give a bow!  (Applause.)  Thank you so much.  So in addition to Janelle Monáe, please give Kendrick Lamar a big round of applause!  (Applause.)  Here he is, right here.  (Applause.) ... Read More»

By | July 4, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders, U.S. Policy | Tags:

Trafficking in Persons Report 2016

Secretary Kerry Remarks at the 2016 Trafficking In Persons Report Ceremony Remarks John Kerry Secretary of State Ben Franklin Room Washington, DC June 30, 2016 Secretary Kerry: (June 30): “When we talk about “human trafficking,” we’re talking about slavery — modern-day slavery that still today claims more than 20 million victims on any given time.”  ... Read More»

By | June 30, 2016 | Topics: News, Official Reports | Tags: ,

06/25/16 – Remarks by President Obama at Global Entrepreneurship Summit and Conversation with Mark Zuckerberg and Entrepreneurs

Remarks President Obama The White House Stanford University Stanford, California Office of the Press Secretary June 25, 2016 For Immediate Release 10:55 A.M. PDT THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you!  (Applause.)  Hello, everybody.  Thank you so much.  Thank you.  (Applause.)  Thank you.  Thank you very much.  Thank you.  Everybody have a seat.  Thank you so much.  Thank ... Read More»

By | June 25, 2016 | Topics: Economic Affairs, Trade | Tags: , ,

06/24/16 – FACT SHEET: Global Entrepreneurship Summit

Fact Sheet The White House Office of the Press Secretary June 24, 2016 For Immediate Release President Obama today will take part in the 7th annual Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) at Stanford University in Silicon Valley, California, which will feature new commitments to promote entrepreneurship as a driver for economic growth, social inclusion, and secure ... Read More»

By | June 24, 2016 | Topics: Economic Affairs, Trade | Tags: , ,

06/22/16 – Secretary Kerry’s Remarks at the GES Welcoming Reception

Remarks John Kerry Secretary of State Arrillaga Alumni Center, Stanford University Palo Alto, California June 22, 2016 Greg, thank you very much. Thank you for – I don’t know where you’ve gone off to. But thank you for your extraordinary personal leadership. Greg has been the head of a bank – the Silicon Valley Bank, ... Read More»

By | June 22, 2016 | Topics: Economic Affairs, Trade | Tags: , , ,

06/20/16 – Secretary Kerry’s Statement on World Refugee Day

Statement John Kerry Secretary of State World Refugee Day June 20, 2016 Today, we honor refugees’ resilience and courage. We also recognize the tremendous contributions made by local and international non-governmental organizations on the front lines of delivering life-saving assistance. This year’s commemoration comes at a time when brutal conflicts are forcing record numbers of ... Read More»

By | June 20, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders, U.S. Policy | Tags: , ,

06/13/16 – Media Note: U.S. Hosts Japan and Republic of Korea for Trilateral Dialogue

Media Note June 13, 2016 The United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea held a trilateral dialogue on the Middle East and North Africa on June 13 in Washington, D.C. U.S. Assistant Secretary for Near Eastern Affairs Anne Patterson hosted her counterparts, Japan’s Director-General for Middle Eastern and African Affairs Tsukasa Uemura and the ... Read More»

By | June 13, 2016 | Topics: U.S. - South Korea​ | Tags: , , ,

06/09/16 – Ambassador Mark W. Lippert Commencement Address, Humphreys High School June 9, 2016

Remarks Ambassador Mark Lippert Humphreys High School June 09, 2016 : Thanks, everybody.  Good evening — a very happy, joyous occasion.  Ms. Castro, thank you for your excellent speech.  Thank you for your kind introduction.  I keep looking around for that someone of high regard, but anyway.  And, Mr. Kim, thank you for your speech ... Read More»

By | June 9, 2016 | Topics: Ambassador | Tags: ,

World Oceans Day 2016

On World Oceans Day, we reflect on the challenges facing our ocean and what we must do to protect this life-sustaining resource for future generations. The fact is that the rich marine environment many of us have enjoyed throughout our lives is under extreme stress from human activity. Without a shift in our approach, our ... Read More»

By | June 8, 2016 | Topics: American Center Korea

06/06/16 – Secretary Kerry’s Remarks at the Public Event on Oceans

Remarks John Kerry Public Event on Oceans June 6, 2016 SECRETARY KERRY: Thank you very much. (Inaudible) extraordinary experience. That’s really wonderful. I’m privileged to be here with everybody. I want to begin by thanking China’s oceanic administrator – Mr. Wang Hong, thank you very, very much for your leadership. I want to thank Cathy Novelli, ... Read More»

By | June 6, 2016 | Topics: Environment, Former U.S. Government Leaders, Global Issues | Tags: , , , ,

World Environment Day 2016

This year’s theme for WED – Go Wild for Life – encourages you to celebrate all those species under threat and take action of your own to help safeguard them for future generations. This can be about animals or plants that are threatened within your local area as well as at the national or global ... Read More»

By | June 5, 2016 | Topics: American Center Korea

Ramadan 2016

Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar and is a period for self-examination, prayer, charity, and special religious devotion.  Ramadan is a month of obligatory fasting during daylight hours for many adult Muslims; this observance is one of the basic acts of faith.  The Ramadan season commemorates the time when the Quran was ... Read More»

By | June 5, 2016 | Topics: American Center Korea

06/2016 – Country Reports on Terrorism

>>Released June 2016 United States Department of State Publication Bureau of Counterterrorism   Country Reports on Terrorism 2015 is submitted in compliance with Title 22 of the United States Code, Section 2656f (the “Act”), which requires the Department of State to provide to Congress a full and complete annual report on terrorism for those countries ... Read More»

By | June 3, 2016 | Topics: Official Reports | Tags:

06/01/16 – U.S. Treasury Department Takes Actions To Further Restrict North Korea’s Access to The U.S. Financial System

June 1, 2016 Action Responds to the Threat that North Korea Poses to the Global Financial System; the United States Calls on International Partners to Similarly Takes Steps toward Severing Banking Relationships with the Dangerous Regime WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced a Notice of Finding that the Democratic People’s Republic of ... Read More»

By | June 1, 2016 | Topics: U.S. - North Korea | Tags: ,

06/01/16 – Allies in Business: The Future of the U.S.-ROK Economic Relationship

Remarks Ambassador Mark W. Lippert Institute for Global Economics June 1, 2016 : REMARKS AS DELIVERED Good morning, everybody. (Remarks in Korean)  It’s great to be here this morning.  Thank you, Chairman SaKong, your very kind introduction and you really framed the speech well, in a very concise, short way, and I really appreciate the ... Read More»

By | June 1, 2016 | Topics: Ambassador | Tags:

05/31/16 – Presidential Proclamation — National Oceans Month, 2016

Proclamation President Obama NATIONAL OCEANS MONTH May 31, 2016 Covering more than 70 percent of the earth’s surface, oceans have a profound impact on our way of life.  Home to a great diversity of plant and animal species, their precious ecosystems provide food and energy that are integral to our survival.  In bringing tourism and ... Read More»

By | May 31, 2016 | Topics: Global Issues | Tags: , ,

05/27/16 – FACT SHEET: The G-7 Summit at Ise-Shima Japan

Fact Sheet G-7 Summit Ise-Shima, Japan May 27, 2016 Promoting International Peace and Security In Ise-Shima, G-7 leaders recognized the challenges of persistent geopolitical conflicts and the rise of violent extremism.  The G-7 underscored its responsibility to lead international efforts to tackle these challenges and forge a path forward. Iraq:  G-7 leaders expressed support for ... Read More»

By | May 27, 2016 | Topics: Economic Affairs, U.S. Policy | Tags: , ,

05/27/16 – USNS Mercy Conducts MEDEVAC of South Korean Sailor

Pacific Partnership Public Affairs May 27, 2016 PACIFIC OCEAN — The hospital ship USNS Mercy conducted a medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) May 27 to assist a Republic of Korea sailor in need of medical attention. At approximately 10:30 a.m., May 26, Mercy, which is operated by military sealift command personnel from San Diego, CA, received orders ... Read More»

By | May 27, 2016 | Topics: U.S. - South Korea​ | Tags: , , , ,

05/27/16 – G7 Ise-Shima Leaders’ Declaration

May 27, 2106 We, the leaders of the G7, met in Ise-Shima on 26 and 27 May 2016 to address major global economic and political challenges. Global growth remains moderate and below potential, while risks of weak growth persist. Escalated geo-political conflicts, terrorism and refugee flows complicate the global economic environment. The rise of violent ... Read More»

By | May 27, 2016 | Topics: Economic Affairs, U.S. Policy | Tags: , ,

05/27/16 – Remarks by President Obama and Prime Minister Abe of Japan at Hiroshima Peace Memorial

Remarks President Obama Prime Minister Abe Hiroshima Peace Memorial May 27, 2016 PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Seventy-one years ago, on a bright, cloudless morning, death fell from the sky and the world was changed.  A flash of light and a wall of fire destroyed a city and demonstrated that mankind possessed the means to destroy itself. Why do we come ... Read More»

By | May 27, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders, U.S. Policy | Tags: , ,

05/26/16 – Remarks by President Obama in Press Availability — Ise-Shima, Japan

(Note: President Obama’s remarks on North Korea in bold) Remarks President Obama Shima Kanko Hotel, The Classic Ise-Shima, Japan May 26, 2016 6:25 P.M. JST PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Hello, everybody.  So, as all of you know, we’re going to Hiroshima tomorrow.  And in the interest of getting you all home at a reasonable hour, we’re not going ... Read More»

By | May 26, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders, U.S. - North Korea | Tags: , , , ,

05/25/16 – Ambassador Lippert Remarks on Strategies and Global Cooperation for the Transition to a Low-carbon Climate Resilient Economy

-Session Title- Strategies and Global Cooperation for the Transition to a Low-carbon Climate Resilient Economy Remarks Ambassador Mark Lippert May 25, 2016  : Welcome Good afternoon, everybody. To Korean friends, 안녕하십니까 여러분, 마크 리퍼트입니다 반갑습니다.  (Hello, everyone, I’m Mark Lippert.  Good to see you.)  It’s a great honor to be here today, and really, hard to ... Read More»

By | May 25, 2016 | Topics: Ambassador | Tags:

05/24/16 – Remarks by President Obama in Address to the People of Vietnam

Remarks President Obama National Convention Center Hanoi, Vietnam May 24, 2016 12:11 P.M. ICT PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Xin chào!  (Applause.)  Xin chào Vietnam!  (Applause.)  Thank you.  Thank you so much.  To the government and the people of Vietnam, thank you for this very warm welcome and the hospitality that you have shown to me on this ... Read More»

By | May 24, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders, U.S. - North Korea | Tags: , , ,

05/15/16 – Presidential Proclamation — Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, 2016 [Source: The White House]

Proclamation President Obama ASIAN AMERICAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH May 15, 2106 – – – – – – – BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) are the fastest growing racial group in our country, growing over 4 times as rapidly as the population ... Read More»

By | May 15, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders, U.S. Policy | Tags:

Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month 2016

May is Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month – a celebration of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States. A rather broad term, Asian-Pacific encompasses all of the Asian continent and the Pacific islands of Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia. U.S. GOVERNMENT TEXTS Presidential Proclamation — Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, 2016 [Source: The White House] Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) are the fastest growing racial group in our ... Read More»

By | May 15, 2016 | Topics: American Center Korea

05/03/16 – Assistant Secretary Daniel R. Russel Remarks at the JoongAng Ilbo-CSIS Forum 2016

Remarks Daniel R. Russel Assistant Secretary of state JoongAng Ilbo-CSIS Forum 2016 May 3, 2016 Thank you, Victor, for the introduction. I’m delighted to be here at CSIS with so many great Korea hands and old friends. Honored to be the warm-up act for Rich Armitage and Wendy Sherman later in the day! There’s always ... Read More»

By | May 3, 2016 | Topics: U.S. - South Korea​ | Tags:

05/03/16 – Press Availability by Secretary Kerry

Special Briefing John Kerry Secretary of State  Washington, DC May 3, 2016   SECRETARY KERRY: Good morning, everybody. QUESTION: Good morning? What? QUESTION: Good afternoon. Yes? SECRETARY KERRY: That too. QUESTION: Are you still on Geneva time? SECRETARY KERRY: That too. In Geneva time, it’s good evening. Anyway. So before we get started today, I want to just quickly say something ... Read More»

By | May 3, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders, U.S. Policy | Tags:

World Press Freedom Day 2016

Every year, May 3rd is a date which celebrates the fundamental principles of press freedom; to evaluate press freedom around the world, to defend the media from attacks on their independence and to pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the exercise of their profession. [Source: Department of State] World Press Freedom Day [Source: U.S. Department of State] “To those who ... Read More»

By | May 3, 2016 | Topics: American Center Korea

04/27/16 – Ambassador Mark Lippert Remarks at Civil Space Agreement Signing Ceremony

Remarks Ambassador Mark Lippert April 27, 2016 : Welcome Foreign Minister Yun, thank you, for your very kind words.  And I would just say at the outset, we–on your comments on North Korea–we remain completely aligned on our goals and need to work closely together. We appreciate you highlighting that great area of cooperation between ... Read More»

By | April 27, 2016 | Topics: Ambassador | Tags: ,

Opening Ceremony of the United Nations Signing Ceremony of the Paris Agreement on Climate Change

It’s an enormous privilege to be here on Earth Day to join in signing this historic agreement. I was a young organizer and speaker, not so long back from Vietnam, on the first Earth Day in 1970.  And I was a young senator and advocate in Rio in 1992 when we held the first Earth ... Read More»

By | April 22, 2016 | Topics: Environment, Global Issues | Tags: , ,

04/22/16 – Email from President Obama: “Our Responsibility to Act”

April 22, 2016 On Earth Day, the United States joined about 170 other countries in signing the Paris Agreement, a historic deal to reduce carbon emissions across the globe. President Obama sent the following message to the White House email list to reflect on the America’s leadership in the fight against climate change. Didn’t get ... Read More»

By | April 22, 2016 | Topics: Environment, Former U.S. Government Leaders, Global Issues | Tags: , , ,

04/19/16 – U.S.-R.O.K.-Japan Trilateral Meeting Press Conference

Remarks Antony J. Blinken Deputy Secretary of State Seoul, South Korea April 19, 2016 Thank you very much. Let me first express my great appreciation to my good friends Vice Foreign Minister Lim and Vice Foreign Minister Saiki for what is now our third round of consultations in just the last year at the level ... Read More»

By | April 19, 2016 | Topics: U.S. - South Korea​ | Tags: , , , , ,

04/15/16 – Deputy Secretary Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall’s Remarks at the American Center in Seoul, Korea — As Prepared for Delivery

Remarks Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall Deputy Secretary American Center Seoul, Korea April 15, 2016 INTRODUCTION Thank you, Mark, for the introduction. I am also honored today that my close colleague, and co-chair of the High Level Bilateral Commission, Ambassador Cho Tae-yul has joined us today. Our work together is so important to our two nations and it ... Read More»

By | April 15, 2016 | Topics: American Center Korea, U.S. - South Korea​ | Tags: , ,

04/01/16 – Joint Statement on Sustaining Action to Strengthen Global Nuclear Security

April 1, 2016 The Nuclear Security Summit process has led to significant achievements in nuclear security at national, regional, and global levels; but the work of building a strengthened, sustained, and comprehensive global nuclear security architecture – consisting of legal instruments, international organizations and initiatives, internationally accepted guidance, and best practices – requires continuous attention. We need ... Read More»

By | April 1, 2016 | Topics: U.S. Policy | Tags: ,

04/01/16 – Nuclear Security Summit 2016 Communiqué

April 1, 2016 The threat of nuclear and radiological terrorism remains one of the greatest challenges to international security, and the threat is constantly evolving.  We, the leaders, gathered in Washington, D.C. on the first day of April, 2016 on the occasion of the fourth Nuclear Security Summit, are proud to observe that the Summits have ... Read More»

By | April 1, 2016 | Topics: U.S. Policy | Tags: , , ,

Jazz Appreciation Month 2016

Each April, the United States celebrates Jazz Appreciation Month (JAM), an opportunity to savor a major American contribution to world culture. Initiated by the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History, JAM aims to focus public attention on the music, and on the many talented composers, musicians and other contributors to the sound. [Source: Department ... Read More»

By | April 1, 2016 | Topics: American Center Korea

03/31/16 Remarks by President Obama, President Park Geun-Hye of the Republic of Korea, and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan After Trilateral Meeting

Remarks President Obama President Park Geun-Hye  Prime Minister Shinzo Abe Walter E. Washington Convention Center Washington, D.C. March 31, 2016 11:51 A.M. EDT PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Well, it is a pleasure to host President Park of the Republic of Korea and Prime Minister Abe of Japan, two of our closest allies in Asia, two of my closest ... Read More»

By | March 31, 2016 | Topics: U.S. - South Korea​ | Tags: , , ,

03/29/16 – Deputy Secretary Antony Blinken Remarks on U.S.-Japan-R.O.K. Trilateral Relationship

March 29, 2016 Good morning. It’s a pleasure to be back at Brookings—and I have to tell you that it is beginning to feel like a second home. Just yesterday, Strobe and I spent some time talking with colleagues about the future of Europe. Over the last year, as Strobe mentioned, I’ve spoken with the ... Read More»

By | March 29, 2016 | Topics: East Asia & Pacific, Political Affairs | Tags: ,

03/18/16 – KORUS Turns Four: U.S.-Korea Trading Relationship Remains Strong

March 18, 2016 This week marks the fourth anniversary since the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS) entered into force and our bilateral trade and investment relationship is substantially larger and stronger than before the KORUS agreement.  Since KORUS entered into force in 2012, the United States and South Korea have carried out five rounds of ... Read More»

By | March 18, 2016 | Topics: U.S. - South Korea​ | Tags: ,

Executive Order — Blocking Property of the Government of NK and the Workers’ Party of Korea, and Prohibiting Certain Transactions with Res

EXECUTIVE ORDER March 16, 2106 BLOCKING PROPERTY OF THE GOVERNMENT OF NORTH KOREA AND THE WORKERS’ PARTY OF KOREA, AND PROHIBITING CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS WITH RESPECT TO NORTH KOREA By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the International Emergency Economic Powers Act ... Read More»

By | March 16, 2016 | Topics: U.S. - North Korea | Tags: , ,

03/16/16 – Blocking Property of the Government of NK and the Workers’ Party of Korea, and Prohibiting Certain Transactions with Respect to

Message March 16, 2016 TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES: Pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) (IEEPA), I hereby report that I have issued an Executive Order (the “order”) with respect to North Korea. The order takes additional steps with respect to the national emergency declared in Executive ... Read More»

By | March 16, 2016 | Topics: U.S. - North Korea | Tags: , ,

Women’s History Month 2016

Each year around the world, International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated on March 8. Thousands of events occur not just on this day but throughout March to mark the economic, political and social achievements of women. Organisations, governments, charities, educational institutions, women’s groups, corporations and the media celebrate the day. [Source: Department of State] U.S. ... Read More»

By | March 8, 2016 | Topics: American Center Korea

03/06/16 – Secretary’s Remarks: On the Passing of Nancy Reagan

Press Statement John Kerry Secretary of State Washington, DC March 6, 2016 Teresa and I join the nation in mourning the passing of Nancy Reagan, a woman whose grace, dedication and love ‎of family were inspirations to us all. President Reagan was one of our country’s greatest optimists, whose courage and foresight helped win the ... Read More»

By | March 6, 2016 | Topics: U.S. Policy | Tags: ,

02/25/16 – Ambassador Samantha Power Remarks at the Security Council Stakeout Following Consultations on the DPRK

Ambassador Samantha Power U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York City February 25, 2016 AS DELIVERED Hi, everybody. Today, in response to the DPRK’s recent nuclear test and subsequent proscribed ballistic missile launch, the United States tabled a draft UN Security Council resolution that, if adopted, would break ... Read More»

By | February 25, 2016 | Topics: U.S. - North Korea | Tags: , , ,

02/25/16 – Assistant Secretary Russel Travel to The Republic of Korea and China

February 25, 2016 Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel Russel will travel to Seoul, February 26 for consultations with ROK officials on a wide range of regional and bilateral issues. He will then visit Beijing February 27 – March 1, where he will meet with Embassy staff and engage in ... Read More»

By | February 25, 2016 | Topics: Political Affairs, South & Central Asia, U.S. - South Korea​, U.S. & Korea | Tags: , ,

February 25, 2016 (Photo)

Director of American Spaces Anthony Tranchina conducts a storytelling session with children from Sejong City, a new “planned city”, which plays host to several Korean government ministries. The event, held at the National Library of Korea, was a half-day version of the Embassy’s popular “Uncle Sam’s Camp” to promote an interest in reading, English language learning and U.S. history ... Read More»

By | February 25, 2016 | Topics: Ambassador, American Center Korea, American Spaces, Events, Photo Gallery | Tags: , ,

02/24/16 – Remarks by the President at “In Performance at the White House: A Tribute to Ray Charles”

Remarks President Obama White House East Room February 24, 2016 8:05 P.M. EST THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you, everybody.  (Applause.)  Thank you so much.  Everybody, please have a seat.  (Applause.)  Well, good evening, everybody, and welcome to the White House. Over the past seven years, Michelle and I have set aside nights like this to honor ... Read More»

By | February 24, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders, U.S. Policy | Tags:

02/26/16 – Secretary Kerry’s Remarks With Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi

Remarks John Kerry Secretary of State  Ben Franklin Room Washington, DC February 23, 2016 View Video: 55’32’’ SECRETARY KERRY: Good afternoon, everybody. I’m delighted to welcome Minister Wang Yi back to the State Department to the Ben Franklin Room and back to Washington. And we had a – this is about the third time that we have now met ... Read More»

By | February 23, 2016 | Topics: U.S. Policy | Tags: , , ,

02/19/16 – Ambassador Mark W. Lippert Remarks at Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea Headquarters Building, Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Remarks Ambassador Mark Lippert Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Busan, Republic of Korea February 19, 2016 : AMBASSADOR LIPPERT:  Good afternoon everyone.  (Remarks in Korean). So I basically said, welcome everybody, great to be here.  Especially because I am a sailor, I am particularly honored to be here today.  Admiral Byrne, you’re right.  It feels good to ... Read More»

By | February 19, 2016 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches | Tags: ,

02/15/16 – Joint Statement of the U.S.-ASEAN Special Leaders’ Summit: Sunnylands Declaration

Sunnylands, California February 15-16, 2016 We the Heads of State/Government of the Member States of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the United States of America gathered in Sunnylands, California, on February 15-16, 2016, for a Special Leaders Summit.  This Special U.S.-ASEAN Leaders Summit was the first ever to be held in the ... Read More»

By | February 16, 2016 | Topics: U.S. Policy | Tags:

02/15/16 – Remarks by President Obama at Opening Session of the U.S.-ASEAN Summit

REMARKS PRESIDENT OBAMA AT OPENING SESSION OF THE U.S.-ASEAN SUMMIT Sunnylands Center The Annenberg Retreat at Sunnylands Rancho Mirage, California Feburary 15, 2016 3:47 P.M. PST      PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Good afternoon, everyone.  It is my privilege to welcome you to this landmark gathering — the first U.S.-ASEAN Summit hosted by the United States.  This reflects ... Read More»

By | February 15, 2016 | Topics: U.S. Policy | Tags: ,

02/13/16 – Presidential Proclamation: Death of Antonin Scalia

Proclamation President Obama Death of Antonin Scalia Feburary 13, 2016 BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION As a mark of respect for Antonin Scalia, Associate Justice of the United States, I hereby order, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States of America, ... Read More»

By | February 13, 2016 | Topics: U.S. Policy | Tags: , ,

02/21/16 – FACT SHEET: Unprecedented U.S.-ASEAN Relations

Fact Sheet February 12, 2016 Engagement with Southeast Asia, a strategically important, economically dynamic region at the heart of the Asia-Pacific, is a central pillar of the U.S. Rebalance to Asia.  Sitting astride some of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is strategically important to U.S. interests, and is a ... Read More»

By | February 12, 2016 | Topics: U.S. Policy | Tags:

02/07/16 – USFK News Release: ROK-U.S. Alliance agree to formally discuss deployment of THAAD

February 7, 2016 The Republic of Korea (ROK) and the United States of America (U.S.) have determined that today’s long-range ballistic missile launch and recent nuclear test by North Korea highlights the serious nuclear, weapons of mass destruction, and ballistic missile threat they pose to the peace and stability of the ROK and the entire ... Read More»

By | February 7, 2016 | Topics: U.S. - North Korea | Tags: , ,

02/06/16 – Statement by Secretary Kerry: DPRK Missile Launch

Statement John Kerry Secretary of State February 6, 2016 DPRK Missile Launch The United States strongly condemns  today’s missile launch by the DPRK – a flagrant violation of UN Security Council Resolutions related to the DPRK use of ballistic missile technology. This is the second time in just over a month that the DPRK has ... Read More»

By | February 6, 2016 | Topics: U.S. - North Korea | Tags: , ,

02/06/16 – Statement by National Security Advisor Susan E. Rice on the North Korean Missile Launch

Press Statement THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary February 6, 2016 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Statement by National Security Advisor Susan E. Rice on the North Korean Missile Launch North Korea’s launch using ballistic missile technology, following so closely after its January 6 nuclear test, represents yet another destabilizing and provocative action and is ... Read More»

By | February 6, 2016 | Topics: U.S. - North Korea | Tags: , , ,

02/03/16 – Presidential Proclamation — National African American History Month, 2016

PROCLAMATION President Obama National African American History Month February 3, 2016 America’s greatness is a testament to generations of courageous individuals who, in the face of uncomfortable truths, accepted that the work of perfecting our Nation is unending and strived to expand the reach of freedom to all. For too long, our most basic liberties ... Read More»

By | February 3, 2016 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders, U.S. Policy | Tags:

Black History Month 2016

Black History Month was the inspiration of Carter G. Woodson, a noted scholar and historian, who instituted Negro History Week in 1926. He chose the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of President Abraham Lincoln and the abolitionist Frederick Douglass. The celebration was expanded to a month in 1976, the nation’s bicentennial. ... Read More»

By | February 3, 2016 | Topics: American Center Korea

06/23/16 – Secretary Kerry’s Remarks at the Opening of the 2016 Global Entrepreneurship Summit

Remarks John Kerry Secretary of State Stanford University Memorial Auditorium Stanford, California June 23, 2016 SECRETARY KERRY:  Thank you so much.  You’re the best.  I love you.  You are terrific. Thank you so much.  Thank you.  (Cheers.)  Patricia, thank you.  Thank you so much.  Good morning, everybody.  Are you all energized?  (Cheers.)  I saw that ... Read More»

By | January 23, 2016 | Topics: Economic Affairs, Trade | Tags: , , ,

01/22/16 – Secretary Kerry’s Remarks at the World Economic Forum

Remarks John Kerry Secretary of State Davos, Switzerland January 22, 2016 SECRETARY KERRY: Klaus, thank you very, very much. Hello, everybody. Good morning to you. Klaus, first of all, thank you for your very warm, generous introduction. I especially want to thank you for your superb leadership of the World Economic Forum for many years. ... Read More»

By | January 22, 2016 | Topics: Economic Affairs, Trade | Tags: ,

01/13/16 – Remarks of President Barack Obama – State of the Union Address As Delivered

Remarks President Obama January 13, 2016 9:10 P.M. EST Mr. Speaker, Mr. Vice President, Members of Congress, my fellow Americans: Tonight marks the eighth year that I’ve come here to report on the State of the Union. And for this final one, I’m going to try to make it a little shorter. (Applause.) I know some ... Read More»

By | January 13, 2016 | Topics: U.S. Policy | Tags: ,

01/13/16 – Secretary Kerry’s Remarks on the United States Foreign Policy Agenda for 2016

Remarks John Kerry Secretary of State National Defense University Washington, DC January 13, 2016 [ View Video  42’49’’] Thank you. Good morning. Thank you. Thank you very much, Major General Padilla. Thank you, all of you. It’s a great privilege for me to be able to be here today. I’m delighted to be in the presence of ... Read More»

By | January 13, 2016 | Topics: U.S. Policy | Tags: ,

01/06/16 – Ambassador Samantha Power’s Statement on the North Korean Nuclear Test

Ambassador Samantha Power U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations U.S. Mission to the United Nations January 6, 2016 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Today, the UN Security Council met to discuss the nuclear test carried out by North Korea – a highly provocative act that poses a grave threat to international peace and security. The test ... Read More»

By | January 6, 2016 | Topics: U.S. - North Korea | Tags: , ,

01/06/16 – Secretary Kerry’s Remarks: On the North Korean Nuclear Test

Press Statement John Kerry Secretary of State Washington, DC January 6, 2016 The United States and nations around the world have unequivocally condemned North Korea’s latest nuclear test. This highly provocative act poses a grave threat to international peace and security and blatantly violates multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions. As I am reiterating today in ... Read More»

By | January 6, 2016 | Topics: U.S. - North Korea | Tags: , ,

01/06/16 – Readout of the President’s Call with President Park Geun-Hye of the Republic of Korea

President Obama’s Call January 6, 2016 President Obama spoke by phone today with President Park Geun-Hye of the Republic of Korea (ROK) to discuss the international response to North Korea’s nuclear test.  The two leaders condemned the test and agreed that North Korea’s actions constitute yet another violation of its obligations and commitments under international ... Read More»

By | January 6, 2016 | Topics: U.S. - South Korea​ | Tags: ,

01/05/16 – Secretary Kerry’s Remarks: On the Passing of Ambassador Stephen Bosworth

Remarks John Kerry Secretary of State January 5, 2016 Teresa and I were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Ambassador Stephen Bosworth. From his tireless efforts as Special Representative for North Korea Policy to his distinguished service in countries such as the Republic of Korea, the Philippines, and Tunisia, Steve served our country ... Read More»

By | January 5, 2016 | Topics: U.S. - South Korea​ | Tags: , ,

January 5, 2016 (Photo)

Prof. Hope Elizabeth May of Central Michigan University gives a talk on ‘The Memory of Homer Hulbert and his Contribution to Korea’s Internationalism’ as part of the U.S.-Korea Relations: Legacy Series. Hulbert lived in Korea on and off between 1886 and 1907, eventually becoming the loudest Western voice advocating for Korean independence during the Japanese ... Read More»

By | January 5, 2016 | Topics: American Center Korea, Photo Gallery, U.S. - South Korea​ | Tags: , , ,

November 12, 2015 (Photo)

Robert Ogburn, Minister-Counselor for Public Affairs (left) poses with Hwang Wooyea, Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of Education from Ministry of Education (second from left) and Lee Yongsoon, President of Korea Research Institute for Vocational Education & Training (third from left) at MOU Signing Ceremony on Trilateral Cooperation for the Free Semester Program among Global ... Read More»

By | November 12, 2015 | Topics: Education, Photo Gallery

November 5, 2015 (Photo)

Robert Ogburn, Minister-Counselor for Public Affairs (3rd from left) hosts the Embassy Youth Forum on “Education, Exchanges, and Women” with Evan Ryan, Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, U.S. Department of State (3rd from right) and four student panelists at the Embassy’s American Center Korea. Read More»

By | November 5, 2015 | Topics: American Center Korea, Education, Human Rights, Photo Gallery | Tags: , , ,

October 16, 2015 (Photo)

Robert Ogburn, Minister-Counselor for Public Affairs (3rd from left) hosts the Embassy Youth Forum on “Children’s Issues and Adoptions-Adoptees” with Ambassador Susan S. Jacobs, Special Advisor for Children’s Issues, U.S. Department of State (4th from right) and student panelists at the Embassy’s American Center Korea. Read More»

By | October 16, 2015 | Topics: American Center Korea, Child and Family Matters, Photo Gallery | Tags: ,

10/14/15 – International Religious Freedom Report

International Religious Freedom John Kerry Secretary of State Press Briefing Room Washington, DC October 14, 2015 SECRETARY KERRY: Well, today we present the department’s International Religious Freedom Report for 2014. And I particularly want to thank David Saperstein and his entire team for producing a report that reflects a vast amount of objective research and ... Read More»

By | October 14, 2015 | Topics: Official Reports | Tags:

International Narcotics Control Strategy Report

2015 Full Report Volume I: Drug and Chemical Control – North Korea (DPRK) — 147 Volume II: Money Laundering and Financial Crimes     2014 Full Report Volume I: Drug and Chemical Control – North Korea Volume II: Money Laundering and Financial Crimes 2013 Full Report  (March 2013) 2012 Full Report Volume I: Drug and Chemical Control – North Korea ... Read More»

By | July 6, 2015 | Topics: Official Reports | Tags:

02/11/15 – Trade Promotion and the Fight to Preserve the Open Internet

Remarks Ambassador Daniel A. Sepulveda Deputy Assistant Secretary and U.S. Coordinator for International Communications and Information Policy, Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Association of American Chambers of Commerce in Latin America Los Angeles, CA February 11, 2015 Three billion people are connected to the Internet today. And trillions of devices are ... Read More»

By | February 11, 2015 | Topics: Economic Affairs, Trade | Tags: ,

World Oceans Day 2014

Press Statement John Kerry Secretary of State Washington, DC June 8, 2014 World Oceans Day is a time to pause and focus on protecting our ocean: our planet’s most extraordinary ecosystem. Life as we know it wouldn’t be possible were it not for our ocean. We depend on the ocean for life’s essentials: the food ... Read More»

By | June 8, 2014 | Topics: Economic Affairs | Tags: ,

World Economic Forum Joint Statement on Environmental Goods Trade

January 24, 2014 The World Trade Organization members — Australia, Canada, China, Costa Rica, the European Union, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, Switzerland, Chinese Taipei and the United States — announce the launch of a new initiative to eliminate tariffs on environmental goods at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Following is the ... Read More»

By | January 24, 2014 | Topics: Economic Affairs | Tags: , ,

U.S. Government’s Response to Super Typhoon Haiyan

November 19, 2103 Thank you Mr. Chairman, Senator Rubio, and other Members of the Subcommittee for giving me this opportunity to testify on the U.S. Government’s response to Super Typhoon Haiyan, which struck the Philippines on November 8th. The typhoon, one of the largest and strongest in history, struck the central Philippines from the east, ... Read More»

By | November 19, 2013 | Topics: Global Issues, Government Offices | Tags: ,

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