Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the USA

Ambassador Kennedy,

board members and staff of

the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation,

ladies and gentlemen,

When I was a high school student,

I studied English with

President Kennedy’s famous speeches,

including his inaugural address and

the “Berlin wall” speech.

Reading through his words,

I came to respect John F. Kennedy.

The values he stood for,

and the way he viewed the world,

gave him the courage and determination

to accomplish social progress and

scientific advancement.

It was the spirit of “New Frontier.”

He showed us that

only those with real courage

can bring about innovation and reform.

His insight was a great lesson to me.

I am honored to receive this year’s

“Profile in Courage Award,”

a symbol of John F. Kennedy’s

New Frontier.

But at the same time, I ask myself

whether I deserve this award,

and whether I achieved such an innovation

and positive change.

Courage blooms on

utter sacrifice and dedication.

I once again

promise myself to make more efforts.

I am even more privileged

to take this honor together

with my dear friend

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

I know that this award

is a reminder of my solemn duty -

a profound sense of responsibility

placed upon the Republic of Korea,

the United States and Japan

to promote freedom and prosperity

around the world

by standing together in solidarity.

To light the path ahead of us,

we need to renew our courage

with greater dedication.

And as we continue

to take steps down that road,

I will keep counting on your support.

Thank you.