Kim Dongyeon and Acting U.S. Ambassador Joseph Yun Discuss Strengthening South Korea-U.S. Cooperation through an "Innovation Alliance"

On September 4, Kim Dongyeon, Governor of Gyeonggi Province, held a luncheon at Dodamso with Joseph Yun, Acting U.S. Ambassador to South Korea. During the meeting, they reaffirmed the importance of strengthened bilateral cooperation following the recent South Korea-U.S. summit and discussed ways to further enhance relations between Gyeonggi Province and the United States.

Governor Kim expressed his gratitude for Acting Ambassador Yun’s visit to Gyeonggi Province at a time when South Korea-U.S. relations are at a pivotal turning point. He also stated his expectation that the role of the Acting Ambassador would become even more significant for the alliance and shared prosperity of both countries moving forward.

The two officials reflected on the significance of the recent South Korea-U.S. summit, agreeing on the achievements of expanding economic cooperation and strengthening security. Governor Kim emphasized that not only the central government but also the National Assembly, local governments, and businesses should participate in public diplomacy to upgrade the South Korea-U.S. alliance into an “innovation alliance.”

They also shared the view that Northern Gyeonggi Province can contribute to easing tensions in border areas and to regional development as a forward base for peace on the Korean Peninsula.

Kim Dongyeon, Governor of Gyeonggi Province (left), warmly shakes hands with Joseph Yun, Acting U.S. Ambassador to South Korea, on the 4th. Provided by Gyeonggi Province

This was the second official meeting between Governor Kim and Acting Ambassador Joseph Yun. Previously, in February, they met and built trust while sharing the necessity of close cooperation between Gyeonggi Province and the United States.

At that time, Governor Kim invited Acting Ambassador Yun to Gyeonggi Province and promised to treat him to Suwon Galbi. Fulfilling that promise, the luncheon featured Suwon-style grilled short ribs, Suwon Yakgwa, and other local specialties, as well as Hwayangjeok, a royal court dish with various ingredients skewered together.

Acting Ambassador Yun showed interest in Suwon Galbi, asking why it is so famous. Governor Kim explained the history, including how the cattle market developed in Suwon during the construction of Hwaseong Fortress in the Joseon era under King Jeongjo, continuing the conversation.

Governor Kim also explained the history of Dodamso, the meeting venue, noting, "The building was formerly used as the official residence of the governor of Gyeonggi Province, but it was opened to the public and renamed 'Dodamso' through a public contest, meaning 'a space that embraces the residents.'"

Acting Ambassador Joseph Yun is an expert in Asian and North Korea policy, having joined the U.S. State Department in 1985, served at the U.S. Embassy in South Korea, and held positions as Special Representative for North Korea Policy and Chief Negotiator for the Six-Party Talks in 2016.

Gyeonggi Province expects that this meeting will serve as a meaningful opportunity to continue a “progressive innovation alliance” among Gyeonggi Province, the United States, and the U.S. Embassy in Korea, as a new chapter of cooperation opens with the second Trump administration and the inauguration of President Lee Jaemyung.