Take charge of U.S.-Korea relations

When Korea figures out the Washington subculture maybe they can explain it to the rest of us.   I think Mr. Kim might be indirectly (but not so subtly) soliciting business from the Korean Government as he belongs to Akin Gump which I think is a lobbying firm.  I am sure Mr. Kim will say that he knows the Washington subculture.  

But I think Koreans have a much better understanding of Washington than Mr. Kim gives them credit.

Yet, in other areas, much remains the same between Korea and its most important ally: lack of understanding of the Washington subculture; a base of support largely devoid of top-tier allies; an insufficient lobbying presence; and a persistent subservient attitude. A combination of these four interrelated factors has negatively impacted Korea’s ability to elevate its standing and be more able to attain its goals with the United States.

V/R
Dave 

Take charge of U.S.-Korea relations

Korea’s lack of understanding of Washington subculture has made it less effective advocating its positions in the U.S.

Jan 03,2013

http://koreajoongangdaily.joinsmsn.com/news/article/article.aspx?aid=2964861

In electing Park Geun-hye, Korea has arrived at a watershed moment. Not only is she the first female president, but she appears to come to the Blue House not beholden to any special interests or political patrons. Consequently, many expect changes in Korea when she takes office on Feb. 25. I hope some of these changes include Korea’s relationship with the United States.

In the past decade, Korea has made great strides on the global stage. Not only has Korea transformed itself from a country that relied on economic aid to one that now provides aid to others, it has also grown its economy to become the twelfth-largest in the world. Korea also participates in a number of important international missions and international bodies, not the least of which is the United Nations, chaired by Ban Ki-moon. Simultaneously, the personal chemistry between Presidents Lee and Obama has drawn the two nations closer than ever, elevating Korea’s clout as Obama administration officials, mindful of that friendship, have shown greater deference to their Korean counterparts and have taken fuller account of their views in formulating policy regarding Korea. 

Yet, in other areas, much remains the same between Korea and its most important ally: lack of understanding of the Washington subculture; a base of support largely devoid of top-tier allies; an insufficient lobbying presence; and a persistent subservient attitude. A combination of these four interrelated factors has negatively impacted Korea’s ability to elevate its standing and be more able to attain its goals with the United States.

(Continued at the lin below)

http://koreajoongangdaily.joinsmsn.com/news/article/article.aspx?aid=2964861