U.S. Chamber President Receives Republic of Korea’s Highest Civilian Honor

WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Chamber President and CEO Thomas J. Donohue today received the Republic of Korea’s highest civilian honor, the Order of Diplomatic Service Merit Gwanghwa Medal, for his continued contributions toward the forging of strong bonds between the United States and South Korea. At a ceremony in Washington, South Korean Minister of Knowledge Economy Hong Sukwoo presented Donohue with the award, acknowledging his personal leadership in moving the U.S. Korea Free Trade Agreement forward and expanding the U.S. – South Korean economic relationship.

“Trade is no longer an optional luxury—it’s an economic imperative, and South Korea has been a vital partner in advancing growth and opportunities that will benefit both our economies,” said Donohue. “I am humbled to receive this award, which I accept on behalf of the U.S. Chamber and the many dedicated professionals who worked hard for many years to pass the Free Trade Agreement and deepen our economic ties.”

“We are grateful for Tom Donohue’s work to bring the U.S. Korea Free Trade Agreement to fruition,” said Tami Overby, President of the U.S. Korea Business Council. “This FTA was the most commercially significant U.S. trade deal in more than a decade, and his dedication to ensuring a strong agreement that benefited both countries was very helpful in getting the deal done.”

The U.S. Korea Business Council is the premier business advocacy organization representing America’s top companies investing in Korea. The council is made up of senior executives of U.S. companies from every business sector that are major investors in Korea and are firmly committed to the Korean market. The mission of the U.S.-Korea Business Council is to enhance two-way trade and investment between the United States and Korea; to promote the bilateral economic relationship at the highest levels of business and government in both countries; and to advance the interests of the Council's members through the exchange of information about developments affecting the business community.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.