Washington: Two Korean American lawmakers underscored their dedication to enhancing economic and other partnerships with South Korea, as Seoul and Washington aim to deepen cooperation in areas such as shipbuilding, trade, and security.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Sen. Andy Kim (D-NJ) and Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) participated in an event hosted by the Korean American Grassroots Conference in Washington, which celebrated notable members of the Korean American community. Sen. Kim, the first Korean American member of the Senate, acknowledged the challenges in the Seoul-Washington relationship, including ongoing tariff tensions, but expressed optimism about its future.
Sen. Kim emphasized the importance of South Korea's investment in the U.S. shipbuilding industry, citing the acquisition of the Philly Shipyard by South Korean conglomerate Hanwha. He highlighted the potential for further growth in the bilateral relationship, affirming his commitment to strengthening ties as a Korean American senator.
Rep. Young Kim, who chairs the subcommittee on East Asia and Pacific affairs under the House Foreign Affairs Committee, expressed confidence in the incoming U.S. Ambassador to South Korea, Michelle Steel. She described Steel as a pivotal figure in U.S.-South Korea relations and anticipated her significant role in addressing political, economic, and humanitarian issues, including those related to the Korean War.
Sen. Kim, however, urged Steel to apologize for allegedly making racist remarks against Asian Americans who were running for office and had served in the U.S. military. Steel was confirmed by the Senate last week to assume the ambassadorship.
Rep. Kim also discussed her efforts to pass the "Partner with Korea Act," a bill designed to create 15,000 E-4 highly skilled work visas for South Koreans with specialized expertise. She stressed the bill's importance following a U.S. immigration raid at a South Korean battery plant construction site in Georgia that resulted in the detention of over 300 Korean workers.
Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) also attended the event, commending the Korean American community and advocating for greater representation of Korean Americans in U.S. politics and leadership roles. Rep. Kim reflected on her journey to Congress, celebrating America's diversity and encouraging young Korean Americans to seize the opportunities the country offers.
Rep. Kim concluded by emphasizing the integral role of Korean Americans in the broader American community, urging them to continue striving for success and contributing to the nation's fabric.