It is with the deepest personal sadness that Mrs. Feulner and I have learned of the passing of our esteemed friend President Kim Dae-jung. It is a profoundly sad day for the Republic of Korea. President Kim was a truly historic figure. South Korea’s passage from authoritarian rule to democracy is a testament to his tireless advocacy despite years of persecution.
From my early meetings with him when he was living in exile in Washington, to many meetings with him in the Blue House, and on his visits to the United States as the ROK’s President, we cherished his shared insights and his vision for a better future. He will also be remembered for his visionary quest to reconcile the divided Korean people.
I drew inspiration from him and learned much during our many visits together. We send our very best wishes to his wife, whose grace and hospitality were always so deeply appreciated by President Kim’s many friends from America. Today, Korea lost a titan, and I have lost a friend.
