Recognizing the 111th Anniversary of the Arrival of the First Korean Immigrants

Floor Speech

Mr. ROYCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the tremendous achievements that Korean Americans have made since the first Koreans arrived here in California, in the United States, on this day, on January 13, back in 1903.

In recognizing this special anniversary, we honor the rich cultural history, the wonderful contributions that those Korean Americans have made to the arts, to science, to commerce.

Korean Americans are leaders in business and government and in the community here. They serve bravely in our Nation's armed services and have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our Nation.

As chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, I also see the positive impact of Korean Americans on the U.S. Republic of Korea relationship. Last year, I was honored to welcome President Park when she visited the U.S. and made a special stop in southern California to meet with Korean American leaders.

Next month, I will lead a bipartisan delegation to Seoul to meet with President Park to reinforce America's friendship with South Korea.

Having chaired the U.S.-Korea Interparliamentary Exchange, I know well the role that those members of the National Assembly and of our House of Representatives played in establishing the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement.

So, in the months ahead, Congress will continue its work on issues that deepen the relationship, the special relationship, with U.S. and South Korea.

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