The Korea Society: Strengthening US-Korea Relations Since 1957
The Korea Society is a non-partisan, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering understanding and cooperation between the United States and Korea. Based in New York City, the organization serves as a vital bridge for cultural, scientific, and industrial exchange, ensuring that the bond between the two nations continues to grow through mutual appreciation.
Operating through a combination of endowments, grants, and donations, the Society provides a platform for dialogue and collaboration. While it has evolved over decades—including a 1993 amalgamation of several groups to form its current identity—its core mission remains rooted in the pursuit of global improvement through bilateral friendship.
Key Facts
- Founded: November 20, 1957.
- Legal Status: 501(c)(3) non-partisan nonprofit organization.
- Headquarters: New York City, New York.
- Primary Goal: Improving relations and mutual understanding between the US and Korea.
- Funding Sources: Endowments, donations, and grants.
The Vision of General James Van Fleet
The origins of the Korea Society are deeply tied to the experiences of US General James Van Fleet. Between 1951 and 1953, Van Fleet served as the commander of all US ground forces, the Republic of Korea Army, and all UN ground forces during the Korean War. His connection to the region was profoundly personal; in a 1953 speech at the Korean Capitol Building, he expressed a lasting emotional bond with the people of Korea, promising to return.
Upon returning to the United States, Van Fleet transitioned from military leadership to humanitarian advocacy. In the 1950s, he served as the chairman of the American-Korean Foundation (AFK), where he successfully led fund drives to support reconstruction efforts and provide essential aid to the Korean people. This success laid the groundwork for a more permanent institution dedicated to long-term cooperation.
The Foundation and Growth of the Society
To expand his vision of cooperation, General Van Fleet collaborated with a distinguished group of leaders across various sectors. This network included Arthur Hays Sulzberger of The New York Times, Henry Luce of Time-Life, Spyros P. Skouras of 20th Century Fox, and William Randolph Jr. He also engaged the expertise of real estate developer William Zeckendorf, Juilliard President William Schuman, and Ben C. Lim, who served as the first Korean Ambassador to the UN.
On November 20, 1957, Van Fleet became one of the five signers of the certificate of incorporation for the Korea Society. The organization's founding mandate was to promote friendly relations through the mutual appreciation of culture, arts, sciences, industries, and shared ideals, contributing ultimately to the improvement of mankind.
The Society established its first operations center at 420 Lexington Avenue and received an early government endorsement from President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Over the years, the organization has recognized global leaders and influential figures with prestigious awards, including Ban Ki-moon, Jimmy Carter, George W. Bush, Kim Dae-jung, Colin Powell, Lee Kun-hee, Chung Mong Koo, Chey Tae-won, and Park Yong-man.
Organization Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | 1957 |
| Location | New York City, NY |
| Founder/Key Figure | General James Van Fleet |
| Organization Type | Non-partisan 501(c)(3) Nonprofit |
| Website | koreasociety.org |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary purpose of the Korea Society?
The Korea Society aims to improve and maintain friendly relations between the people of the United States and Korea by promoting mutual understanding of their respective cultures, arts, sciences, and industries.
Who founded the Korea Society?
The organization was co-founded by General James Van Fleet, who was one of five signers of the certificate of incorporation in 1957, alongside a group of prominent American and Korean leaders.
How is the Korea Society funded?
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the organization receives its financial support through grants, donations, and endowments.
Where is the organization located?
The Korea Society is headquartered in New York City, New York.
Who are some of the notable figures recognized by the Society?
The Society has granted awards to a wide array of leaders, including former US Presidents Jimmy Carter and George W. Bush, former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, and former Korean President Kim Dae-jung.