New US Ambassador Greets South Koreans in Fluent Korean, Vows to Bridge Nations

Michelle Park Steel, the newly appointed U.S. ambassador to South Korea, made a striking impression upon her arrival at Incheon International Airport, opting for fluent Korean to address the public. "Hello, I respectfully greet the people of South Korea," she began, before continuing in Korean, "It is deeply 감사 (kamsa - gratitude) to be back on this land."

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Hello, I respectfully greet the people of South Korea.

While official statements are typically delivered in English, Steel's deliberate use of Korean, a language she is fluent in, underscores her identity as a Korean-American and her commitment to fostering deeper ties. Her team noted that she chose to speak Korean despite advice to the contrary, viewing it as a crucial step in building bridges between the two nations.

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It is deeply 감사 (kamsa - gratitude) to be back on this land.

"Although I was born in Seoul, I stand here today representing the United States. It is deeply moving to be back in this position," Steel stated. She further elaborated on the significance of the ROK-U.S. alliance, calling it "one of the strongest alliances in the world" and expressing her anticipation for continued cooperation. Her proactive approach to communication signals a potentially more engaged and culturally sensitive diplomatic presence in Seoul.

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Although I was born in Seoul, I stand here today representing the United States. It is deeply moving to be back in this position.