○ Governor Dong Yeon Kim met with Ambassador Goldberg on December 24 to thank him for his contributions to strengthening Korea-U.S. relations
– Have maintained regular meetings and collaboration since Ambassador Goldberg’s appointment
– Expressed appreciation for promoting Gyeonggi Province-U.S. cooperation and supporting Korean democracy and the Korea-U.S. alliance

On Thursday, April 24, Gyeonggi Province Governor Dong Yeon Kim met with U.S. Ambassador to Korea Philip Goldberg to convey gratitude for the Ambassador’s unwavering trust in and support for Korea. During their meeting, the two reaffirmed their commitment to the strong partnership between Korea and the United States.

Governor Kim thanked Ambassador Goldberg for his steadfast belief in the resilience of Korean democracy, even in the face of the difficult circumstances of martial law and impeachment.

He said that he had received supportive responses from political leaders around the world, including nine U.S. governors, after reporting on the stable situation in Korea and Gyeonggi Province.

The discussion also highlighted the robust and unwavering commitment to the Korea-U.S. alliance, with both leaders emphasizing economic cooperation, particularly in advanced industries. They pledged to maintain close communication to further strengthen the relationship.

The two agreed to collaborate to ensure that the Korea-U.S. alliance continues to play a vital role in fostering peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in Northeast Asia.

The lunch meeting, held shortly before Ambassador Goldberg’s return to the United States, built on the continuing friendship between the two leaders. Governor Kim first met with Ambassador Goldberg during his visit to Gyeonggi Province in November 2022, where they explored ways to bolster Gyeonggi Province-U.S. and Korea-U.S. cooperation. In April 2023, the two leaders attended the KBO league’s opening game at the KT Wiz Baseball Stadium in Suwon City, accompanied by Lieutenant General Willard Burleson, Commander of the Eighth U.S. Army. In September 2023, Governor Kim and Ambassador Goldberg visited Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek City and held discussions with General Paul LaCamera, Commander of United States Forces Korea (USFK). In March 2024, when Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer visited Gyeonggi Province, Ambassador Goldberg joined the meeting, further solidifying the friendship and trust between the two countries.

Since the first meeting between Governor Kim and Ambassador Goldberg, Gyeonggi Province and the United States have significantly expanded bilateral cooperation, signing two new MOUs, organizing three official visits by Gyeonggi Province delegations to the United States, and holding 12 meetings with nine U.S. governors. These efforts have greatly strengthened both the quantity and quality of cooperation.