First Korean-American USFK General Commander Park Jin Visits Yeungnam University... "Please Actively Participate in the Korea-US Friendship Circle"

On the 7th, Jin H. Pak, Commander of the US Army Garrison Daegu (19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command), visited Yeungnam University (President Choi Oechul).

This visit marked Commander Pak's first official visit to a local university since his inauguration. Yeungnam University extended congratulations and a warm welcome to Commander Pak on his appointment, as he became the first Korean-American general in the history of US Forces Korea.

Commander Jin Park, the first Korean-American general in the US Forces Korea (third from the left), is visiting Yeungnam University and taking a commemorative photo with President Oechul Choi (second from the right).

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In attendance at the meeting were Commander Jin H. Pak, Major Derek Rivera (Chief of Civil Affairs, 19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command), other officials from the 19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command, as well as Kim Dalung, former President of Kyungpook National University, and Kim Taehyung, former professor at Daegu Catholic University, who have been participating in exchange programs between the command and the local community.

During the meeting, President Choi Oechul of Yeungnam University and Commander Pak discussed ways to promote friendship between Korea and the United States and to foster mutual cooperation with the local community. Commander Pak particularly emphasized the significance and effectiveness of the 'Korea-US Friendship Circle,' a cultural exchange program between university students in Daegu-Gyeongbuk and US soldiers, encouraging the activation of the program and active participation from students. They also exchanged opinions on practical cooperation measures, such as sharing information about career paths and exploration opportunities for Korean youth within US military bases.

Commander Pak stated, "The Korea-US Friendship Circle has played an important role beyond simple social gatherings, allowing US soldiers and Korean youth to deeply understand each other's cultures and build a sense of empathy. I especially hope that Yeungnam University students can learn the value of international perspective and cooperation through this program and grow into global leaders." He also shared plans to give a special lecture to Yeungnam University ROTC students and others.

In June 2024, Commander Pak became the first Korean-American general in the history of US Forces Korea and took command of the 19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command. Born in the Republic of Korea and immigrating to the United States at the age of six, he graduated from the United States Military Academy and has served for over 29 years, participating in various operations and missions in places such as Bosnia and Afghanistan. Notably, from 2012 to 2015, he served as a battalion commander under the 19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command in Daegu, building a deep connection with the region.

President Choi Oechul of Yeungnam University stated, "Commander Jin H. Pak's visit has become a meaningful opportunity to expand programs that allow Yeungnam University students to directly experience global awareness, cooperation, security, and international exchange. As a citizen, I deeply appreciate the dedication of US Forces Korea for the peace and security of the Republic of Korea, and I will actively promote various cooperative programs with Commander Pak to enhance mutual understanding between the local community and both countries in the future."

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