New York Consul General: "Objective Evaluation Needed for Syngman Rhee, Leader of the Korea-US Alliance"

Kim Euihwan, Consul General in New York, stated that an objective evaluation of former President Syngman Rhee, who led the Korea-US alliance, is necessary as the alliance marks its 70th anniversary.

According to the Consulate General in New York on the 19th (local time), Consul General Kim emphasized the importance of the Korea-US alliance during an invited lecture held the previous day at Princeton University under the theme "The Role of the United States in Korea's Prosperity and Future Cooperation." He said, "The Korea-US alliance is a 'lifeline' that guarantees Korea's survival and was the driving force behind Korea's rapid growth," adding, "The Korea-US Mutual Defense Treaty is a brilliant achievement in Korea's diplomatic history and the result of the nation's desire for survival and prosperity." He also expressed his gratitude for the participation of US forces in the Korean War, citing the old saying 'Eumsusaweon' (when drinking water, remember its source).

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This special lecture was held to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Korea-US alliance and ahead of President Yoon Suk-yeol's upcoming state visit to the United States. Princeton University is also where former President Syngman Rhee, who played a leading role in forging the Korea-US alliance, became the first Korean to receive a doctorate in international law in 1910.

Consul General Kim stated, "There are not many people who know how the Korea-US alliance came to be," and argued, "As the founding president, an objective evaluation of former President Rhee is also necessary." He explained, "After suffering enormous losses in the Korean War, the United States considered leaving the Korean Peninsula, but former President Rhee persuaded them to stay. By emphasizing the significance of Korea as an ally in the free world against communism, he was able to secure continued US support." He added that Rhee's persuasion was also the background for the continued stationing of US forces in Korea.

The Consulate General in New York will also co-host a seminar with The Korea Society, a New York-based nonprofit, at Syngman Rhee Hall at Princeton University on May 19. The seminar will be held in two sessions under the themes "Re-examining the Development of the Korea-US Alliance and the Role of President Syngman Rhee" and "The Role of the Next Generation of Korean Americans for the Future of Korea-US Relations." The Consulate General stated, "By reflecting on the origins and development of the Korea-US alliance through this seminar, we hope to shed new light on the contributions of former President Syngman Rhee and enhance the next generation's understanding of the history, significance, and future direction of the alliance between Korea and the United States."

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