2025 Korean War Armistice Day

2025 Korean War Armistice Day Commemoration & Wreath Laying Ceremony 

Good morning, everyone.

It is truly an honor to join you today for this important and meaningful ceremony.

My name is Kihwan Kim, and I serve as the President of the Federation of Korean Associations of the Southeastern United States.

First, I would like to recognize the American Korean Friendship Society and especially Chairman Mr. Sunny Park for your tireless efforts and deep commitment to our community.

You continue to organize events that bring people together

and remind us of what matters most 

freedom, sacrifice, and unity.

I deeply respect and appreciate everything you do for our society.

Today, we are here to remember and honor the heroes of the Korean War.

Seventy-two years ago, the fighting stopped on the Korean Peninsula.

But we know that peace did not come easily.

That peace came with a heavy price.

More than 36,000 American soldiers gave their lives.

Many more were wounded.

And many are still missing in action.

They didn’t fight for land.

Or power.

They fought for freedom.

They fought for people like me 

and for future generations of Korean Americans who now live freely in this country.

Because of your sacrifice,

Korea was able to survive and thrive.

Because of your courage,

Korea is now a free and prosperous nation.

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Because of you,

my generation and future generations can live in peace and opportunity.

We will never forget that.

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This wreath we lay today is more than just a tribute.

It is a symbol of our deep gratitude, and a promise 

A promise that we will always remember your sacrifice.

And we will continue to teach our children what you gave us.

On behalf of the Federation of Korean Associations of the Southeastern USA,

and on behalf of Korean Americans throughout this region 

I thank you again.

We honor you.

We remember you.

And we are forever grateful.

May God bless you.

May God bless the United States of America.

Thank you.