On March 29, 2011, the U.S.-Korea Institute and SAIS and Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress cohosted a seminar entitled, “Leadership Matters: The U.S.-ROK Alliance in the Lead Up to 2012.” The Honorable Lee Jae-oh, South Korea’s Minister of Special Affairs and 4 time National Assemblyman delivered the keynote speech for this event, entitled “Global Leadership: A New Vision for the U.S.-ROK Alliance,” highlighting such key issues the KORUS FTA, coordination on North Korea policy, and his vision for creating a Northeast Asian Community of Peace and Prosperity.

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In an event on May 24, 2010, the Honorable Lee Jae Oh, Chairman of South Korea’s Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission (ACRC) addressed several imminent challenges facing South Korea today, including the Cheonan incident, the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement and anti-corruption activities under the Lee administration.

Chairman Lee presented official comments on the Cheonan incident. He denounced North Korea’s attack and sinking of the Cheonan as an intolerable act of aggression. He explained that the South Korean government would act in consultation with the international community and seek global cooperation to safeguard world peace and prevent future aggressions by North Korea.

Chairman Lee encouraged the U.S. Congress to promptly ratify the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA), suggesting that the ratification of the KORUS FTA would further the current U.S.-Korea alliance and friendship. Though there may be disparities in the two countries’ economic interests, a prompt ratification of KORUS FTA would close that gap and promote mutual benefits. read more …