MEDIA, PA – August 26, 2025 – Senator Tim Kearney (D-Delaware) was honored to join the Philip Jaisohn (Soh, Jai-Pil) Memorial Foundation to welcome President Lee Jae-Myung and First Lady Kim Hea-Kyung of the Republic of Korea to the Philip Jaisohn Memorial House in Media, Pennsylvania.
Their visit marks a momentous occasion celebrating the enduring legacy of Dr. Philip Jaisohn, the first Korean to become a naturalized U.S. citizen, a pioneer of democracy, and a tireless advocate for Korean independence.
President Lee described his tour of the Memorial House as “deeply meaningful,” praising Dr. Jaisohn’s lifelong dedication to Korea’s independence. He expressed hope that the memorial will inspire future generations and support the local community, while also inquiring about preservation efforts at Jaisohn’s birthplace in Boseong. First Lady Kim took special interest in Jaisohn’s handwritten manuscript for a Korean-English dictionary.
This visit is only the second time in history that a Korean President and First Lady have visited the Memorial House. In 1999, President Kim Dae-Jung and First Lady Lee Hee-Ho visited following President Kim’s receipt of the Liberty Medal. President Lee’s visit continues this important tradition of honoring Dr. Jaisohn’s lasting contributions to democracy, human rights, and the Korean-American community.
Following their visit to the Memorial House, President Lee and First Lady Kim continued on to Hanwha Philly Shipyard, where they highlighted Korea’s leadership in global shipbuilding. The project, a key topic at the recent U.S.–Korea Summit, underscores the importance of strategic partnership and economic cooperation between the two nations. Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon joined this event also.
The occasion was also marked by the presence of distinguished local leaders and friends of the Foundation, including Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, State Senator Tim Kearney, State Senator Patty Kim, Delaware County Council President Dr. Monica Taylor, and Media Mayor Bob McMahon. Representing the Foundation were Board Chair Brian Lee and Dr. Henry Oh, one of its founding leaders, who have each played vital roles in carrying forward Dr. Jaisohn’s mission.
“Not only is this visit a great honor for our organization, but also for Media and Delaware County,” said George Choe, President and CEO of the Jaisohn Foundation, who hosted the event. “This visit reaffirms the bridge of friendship and shared history between Korea and the United States and inspires us to continue Dr. Jaisohn’s mission of service, advocacy, and community empowerment.”
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