The Korea Herald

피터빈트

Korean-American community honored in U.S. Congress

By Korea Herald

Published : Jan. 14, 2014 - 19:11

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(Second from left) Simon Lee, the founder of STG Corp.; Michael Yang, cofounder of Become.com and mySimon.com; Sarah Paiji, cofounder of Snapette, attend the Korean American Day celebration luncheon at the Newseum in Washington, Monday. (Yonhap News) (Second from left) Simon Lee, the founder of STG Corp.; Michael Yang, cofounder of Become.com and mySimon.com; Sarah Paiji, cofounder of Snapette, attend the Korean American Day celebration luncheon at the Newseum in Washington, Monday. (Yonhap News)
WASHINGTON (Yonhap News) ― Senior U.S. congressmen on Monday appreciated contributions by Korean-Americans to the development of the U.S. society and Seoul-Washington ties, marking “Korean American Day.”

In 2005, U.S. Congress designated Jan. 13 as the anniversary to commemorate the arrival of 102 pioneer Korean immigrants to the U.S. in 1903.

“In recognizing this special anniversary, we honor the rich cultural history and the wonderful contributions that Korean-Americans have made to the U.S.,” Rep. Ed Royce, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said during a House floor session.

“Korean-Americans are leaders in business, government and the community. They serve bravely in our nation’s armed services and have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation,” he added. “As chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, I see the positive impact of Korean-Americans on the U.S.-Republic of Korea relationship.” The Republic of Korea is South Korea’s official name.

Royce is known for his efforts to improve South Korea-U.S. relations and resolve the North Korea issue.

He was one of the leading champions of the bilateral free trade agreement, dubbed “KORUS FTA.”

In the months ahead, Royce said, the U.S. Congress will continue its work on issues that deepen the Seoul-Washington alliance. He plans to visit Seoul next month.

Rep. Charles Rangel, a Korean War veteran, also issued a statement celebrating Korean American Day.

“Since 1903, when they first came to America, Korean immigrants have played a vital role in shaping our society through their strong family ties and hard work,” he said.

He noted South Korea’s rise as a war-torn nation to becoming the world’s 13th largest economy.

“In America, Koreans have inspired us with their entrepreneurialism and perseverance toward building success and wealth for their families and communities,” said Rangel, who serves as honorary chairman of the Korea Caucus in the U.S. Congress.

Earlier in the day, the Korea Economic Institute hosted a luncheon in Washington, D.C. to celebrate Korean American Day.

The KEI honored three Korean-American leaders in business and entrepreneurship at this year’s ceremony. They are Simon Lee, the founder of STG Corp.; Michael Yang, cofounder of Become.com & mySimon.com; and Sarah Paiji, cofounder of Snapette.