Administration of Barack H. Obama, 2009

Remarks Prior to a Meeting With President Lee Myung-bak of South Korea in Seoul, South Korea

November 19, 2009

President Obama. Well, Mr. President—I was telling the President, and I think the delegation would agree, that this was the most spectacular ceremony for a state visit that we've been involved with since we've traveled. And I was saying that I especially enjoyed the traditional dress of some of the soldiers.

President Lee. But traditional uniforms are quite difficult to fight in. [Laughter]

President Obama. That's true, that's true.

President Lee. Well, first of all, Mr. President, welcome. And you're bringing very nice weather with you, because up until yesterday it was sub-zeros, frigid cold. [Laughter]

Well, once again, Mr. President, welcome to the Asian region, and of course, welcome to Korea. I know that your visit to Japan and China has been very successful. And, Mr. President, as we all like to say, you saved the best for last. [Laughter]

President Obama. Well, Mr. President, let me just say that we have been so gratified by the warmth with which we've been received here in the Republic of Korea. And I think there's every indication that the alliance between our two countries has never been stronger.

NOTE: The President spoke at 11:15 a.m. at the Blue House. President Lee spoke in Korean, and his remarks were translated by an interpreter. The transcript was released by the Office of the Press Secretary on November 20. A tape was not available for verification of the content of these remarks.

Categories: Meetings With Foreign Leaders and International Officials : South Korea, President Lee.

Locations: Seoul, South Korea.

Names: Lee Myung-bak.

Subjects: South Korea : President; South Korea : President Obama's visit; South Korea : Relations with U.S.

DCPD Number: DCPD200900933.