FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:

Andy Marra

Director of Communications

(917) 941-7234

info@endthekoreanwar.org

The National Campaign to End the Korean War Releases Statement on

President Obama’s Trip to the Korean Peninsula

New York, NY, November 17, 2009 – In conjunction with President Obama’s trip to Seoul during his tour of Asia, The National Campaign to End the Korean War today issued the following statement by campaign spokesperson Christine Ahn:

“There is a gaping hole in President Obama’s tour of Asia. The exclusion of Pyongyang from the Presidential itinerary ignores an opportunity for engagement with North Korea. President Obama has the ability to pave the way for long-term stability on the Korean Peninsula and throughout all of Northeast Asia. Yet, his trip excludes a crucial visit to North Korea that would set a new standard for realizing peace in the region.

“In 1953, the United States and North Korea signed a ceasefire that temporarily halted the Korean War. The United States technically remains at war with North Korea and the lack of any formal conclusion to this bloody and devastating event in history continues to haunt millions of veterans and families. Reducing tension between the United States and North Korea through diplomatic means would provide a chance to find reconciliation and closure for those affected by the Korean War.

“Mr. President, cross the DMZ to set a new standard for building peace in the region. It is time for us to set the stage for productive talks built upon commitment and trust. We urge you to work towards formalizing relations with North Korea in order to chart a clear direction for peace on the Korean Peninsula and throughout the region. ”

About the National Campaign to End the Korean War

The National Campaign to End the Korean War is the collaboration of more than 50 leading Korean-American, veterans, and human rights organizations working to promote a U.S.-Korea policy that will bring about a lasting peace on the Korean peninsula. Our goal is to finally end the 1950-1953 Korean War through the signing of a peace treaty between the United States and North Korea. For more information, please visit: http://www.endthekoreanwar.org.