Visit to the Republic of Korea - Day 2

On February 25, 2013, His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, represented Canada at the inauguration ceremony of Park, Geun-hye, President-elect of the Republic of Korea. The ceremony was held at the National Assembly Plaza, in Seoul.

The event was held at Blue House, the executive office and official residence of the President.

His Excellency attended the dinner on behalf of Canada.

In honour of her installation, the President hosted a dinner for foreign dignitaries who attended the inauguration ceremony.

University President Dr. Kap-Young Jeong presented him with a certificate in recognition of his support for higher education and academic co-operation and partnerships between universities in the Republic of Korea and Canada.

The Governor General was also appointed a distinguished honorary fellow of the University.

The Governor General then met with Dr. Kap-Young Jeong, President of the University. This private university was first established in 1885, by Christian missionaries, making it the oldest in Korea.

In the afternoon, His Excellency participated in a round-table discussion on trade with members of Korean civil society.

Tens of thousands gathered in the heart of the capital to witness this historic moment.

During the ceremony, the Governor General was sitting beside Her Excellency Ms. Quentin Bryce, Governor-General of Australia.

The Governor General had the opportunity to congratulate Her Excellency Park, Geun-Hye on becoming the first female presidente of the Republic of Korea.

His Excellency delivered a keynote address entitled “Where East Meets West: Canada, Korea and the Diplomacy of Knowledge” to students and faculty staff at Yonsei University, as well as participated in a question-and-answer session with the audience.