Heroes and heroines who made remarkable contributions to humanity many decades ago often risk being forgotten by future generations, especially if their contemporaries or fellow figures passed away long before they did. As a result, their achievements may become overshadowed or obscured, leading to a sense of isolation in their legacy.
One combined model example was cultivated lately as the distinguished couple named Lee Won-soon (1890-1993), often called William Lee, and Mary Shin Lee (1903-83), his spouse. They were jointly honored with the 22nd Korea-America Friendship Award for 2024, sponsored by the Korea-America Association (KAA), chaired by Dr. Choi Joong-kyung. The award ceremony took place at the Grand Walkerhill Seoul on Oct. 22. Having married in the United States in 1922, they can be classified as both Korean Americans and American Koreans, reflecting their roles as pioneers in fostering Korea-America friendship over the decades in their respective countries.
William Lee immigrated to Hawaii from Shanghai in 1914 at the age of 24. He found success in the furniture business and real estate, using his financial resources to support Syngman Rhee's diplomatic efforts for Korean independence while serving as Chairman of the Korean National Association in the United States. During the Pacific War, he attached 100 commandos to the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), the predecessor of the CIA, to assist American forces in their fight against Japan. Additionally, he played a role in having the U.S. Postal Service issue a commemorative stamp featuring the Korean national flag during the struggle against Japanese colonial rule.
He returned to Korea permanently in 1953 after the Korean armistice. In 1988, he published a biography titled, "A Man, Syngman Rhee." Three years later, in 1991, the Korean government honored him with the Order of Merit of Nation Foundation for his dedication to the Korean independence movement. As one of the founding fathers of the Republic of Korea, he made significant contributions to both American and Korean societies as a businessman, athlete, social worker, senior Rotarian, man of culture, journalist, educator, and a multifaceted individual.
Mary Lee made significant strides in advocating for women's social rights. In addition to her involvement in the independence movement alongside her husband, she dedicated her life to serving both the U.S. and Korean communities as a lawyer, exceptional social worker, professor, educator, philanthropist, and politician. After returning to Korea in 1953, she became the first woman to serve as minister of Health and Social Affairs, as well as deputy governor of the Korean Red Cross and a member of the National Assembly.
Their three daughters, who married in the United States, are likely over 90 years old now, if they are still alive. Sadly, their only son, Lee Gang-seok, was killed in action during the Korean War. Despite being in their 100s and 80s, the remarkable couple has continually sought new ways to promote Korea-America relations with passion and energy, both while living in America and after returning to Korea. In 1993, their funeral was held as a public event in Seoul, reflecting their immense contributions to various aspects of human life throughout their lifetimes.
The remarkable couple's joint accomplishments and sacrifices over the past century, both in the U.S. and Korea, will continue to shine and be honored for decades to come.
The writer (wkexim@naver.com) is a freelance columnist living in Seoul. This article is his 371st contribution to opinion columns of The Korea Times for 57 years since Oct. 15, 1967.