The incorporated association AKUS held the grand “AKUS Korea-US Regular General Meeting and Inauguration Ceremony of the Southern Korea Branch” at the Busan Port International Exhibition & Convention Center on the 3rd, commemorating the 71st anniversary of the Korea-US alliance.
Ban Ki-moon, former UN Secretary-General, delivering the keynote speech on the 3rd at the AKUS regular general meeting.
This event was attended by many distinguished guests from Korea and abroad, including former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, Busan Mayor Park Hyungjoon, and Dongmyung University President and event chairperson Jeon Ho-hwan, among others.
Over 120 members from the United States and other key figures participated, highlighting the importance of fostering friendship and cooperation between Korea and the US.
Notably, prominent American figures such as General Donoher and Mr. Cowen, both KWNA veterans, also attended, reaffirming the strong bond of the Korea-US alliance.
Event chairperson Jeon Ho-hwan stated, “This event will play an important role in peace on the Korean Peninsula and worldwide, as well as in promoting Korea-US cultural exchange and friendship.”
AKUS Korea President Song Daesung emphasized, “AKUS is an important organization that, through civilian solidarity, promotes the development and prosperity of both countries while safeguarding the values of liberal democracy.”
In his welcoming remarks, Busan Mayor Park Hyungjoon said, “Busan is the last bastion for protecting the freedom of Korea and is now emerging as a global hub city. I hope this event will further strengthen the solidarity and cooperation between Korea and the United States.”
In his greeting, Park Sooyoung, head of the People Power Party’s Busan City Committee, emphasized, “The grave of General Whitcomb at the UN Memorial Cemetery was established through the dedication of Busan citizens, and during the Korean War, Busan was the last bastion for defending freedom.” He expressed hope that the Korea-US alliance would continue to grow even stronger.
In his keynote speech, former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stated, “During the Korean War, Busan was the only bridgehead and the final line of resistance, playing a crucial role in defending Korea’s liberal democracy. Through strengthening the Korea-US alliance, we can steadfastly protect freedom and peace even amid today’s global divisions. We must further solidify the Korea-US alliance based on strong national defense.”
After the official event, the second part featured a cultural performance and the reading of the “Busan Declaration,” concluding the ceremony.
AKUS plans to use this event as an opportunity to further strengthen civilian-level cooperation and friendly relations between Korea and the United States.
AKUS will continue its activities by expanding branches in Korea and the US, providing more opportunities for exchange and presenting the future direction for the Korea-US alliance.
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