Dear Mr. Ambassador

[성김 대사]

Recently, I received a packet of papers in the mail with quite an interesting return address: Suyeong Elementary School in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province.

Enclosed were 23 letters from 6^th graders that they wrote in commemoration of Korea’s Memorial Day, to thank the United States and its military for their support during the Korean War.

This is not the first time that I have received letters from school children.  As Ambassador, I get a lot of support, but I have to say I am most touched when very young people like these 6^th graders reach out.

I was so pleased to receive this great set of letters.  Here are some of my favorites:

And here is a copy of my response:

I think these letters say a lot about the future of our relations.  There is this myth out there that only the older generation in Korea appreciates the role played by United States during the Korean War and beyond.  These young friends’ letters reflect how Korea’s sense of appreciation goes much deeper – it truly cuts across generations.  I think it’s important to remember this as we celebrate our Hwangap, the 60^th anniversary of the U.S.-ROK Alliance.