November 16, 2009 - U.S. Ambassador to Korea Kathleen Stephens Recognizes the Passing of Ambassador James R. Lilley
U.S. Ambassador to Korea Kathleen Stephens Recognizes the Passing of Ambassador James R. Lilley
November 16, 2009
It is with great sadness that I mourn the loss of Ambassador James R. Lilley. Ambassador Lilley was one of our country’s most accomplished diplomats. He was dedicated to strengthening U.S. alliances in Asia, especially with the Republic of Korea. Jim was also a loyal friend and wise mentor to me and many other American diplomats. Despite weakening health, in 2008 Ambassador Lilley attended my Senate confirmation hearing and subsequent swearing-in ceremony as U.S. Ambassador to Korea. In June of this year, Ambassador Lilley and I together attended the honorary degree ceremony for President Lee Myung-bak at George Washington University.
As the U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Korea from 1986 to 1989, Ambassador Lilley was an instrumental figure at an important time in Korea’s history. I was privileged to serve with Ambassador Lilley during this unforgettable period, which saw the watershed 1987 direct democratic election of Korea’s president, the KAL 858 bombing, and the successful hosting of the 1988 Seoul Olympics. The strength of the U.S.-Korea relationship today is in good measure thanks to Ambassador Lilley’s leadership and wisdom during those years. I know I am joined by all of my colleagues at Embassy Seoul as well as Jim and Sally’s countless friends in Korea in extending our deepest condolences to Mrs. Lilley and the entire Lilley family.
Kathleen Stephens
U.S. Ambassador to Korea
A condolence book will be placed at the U.S. Embassy Information and Resource Center (IRC) on November 20, 23-25 from 13:00 to 17:00 pm. For more information, please contact IRC staff at (02)397-4662 or e-mail at ircseoul@state.gov.